French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne has resigned from the French government following the political turmoil over immigration, making way for President Emmanuel Macron to appoint a new government. The 62 year old leader had been appointed in May 2022 after Macron’s reelection for a second term. She was France’s second female prime minister.
In her resignation letter, Borne underlined that she resigned owing to Macron’s request, citing the president’s “will” to “appoint a new prime minister.” Borne’s resignation will be the first step to late last month’s much debated immigration legislation backed by Macron aimed at strengthening the government’s ability to deport some foreigners, among other measures.
Macron’s centrist alliance was able to take a decision only after striking a deal with the conservative Republicans party, which many observers saw as the government’s shift to the right. The tough negotiations and heated parliament debate raised questions over the ability of Borne’s government to pass future major bills.
Political observers also suggested that Macron, a staunch supporter of European integration, wants his new government to get ready for June’s European Union elections. The following month, Macron’s centrists lost their majority in parliament, forcing the government into political maneuvering and using special constitutional powers to be able to pass laws.
The past year has been a challenge for the french government which faced mass protests often marred by violence against unpopular pension changes. The bill to increase the retirement age from 62 to 64 was enacted into law in April, angering many people across the country. Borne faced days of riots which erupted across France at the beginning of the summer, triggered by the deadly police shooting of a teen.
Macron’s office announced his acceptance of Borne’s resignation in a statement, and the president posted on X, formerly Twitter, that Borne’s work “has been exemplary every day.”
“You have implemented our project with statewomen’s courage, commitment and determination. Thank you from the bottom of my heart,” he wrote.
The statement from Macron’s office said Borne will continue in her duties until a new government is appointed. The French media suggested Monday evening that Education Minister Gabriel Attal, 34, was one of the names which are being considered. If chosen, he would be the youngest prime minister in France’s modern history.
Other names which are also doing rounds include Minister for the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu and former Agriculture Minister Julien Denormandie, a longtime supporter of Macron who helped him launch his political movement.
Under the French political system, the prime minister is appointed by the president and accountable to the parliament. The prime minister is in charge of implementing domestic policy and coordinating the government’s team of ministers. The president also looks over foreign policy, European affairs and defense. The President also is the commander-in-chief of the country’s armed forces.
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