France Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu Resigns After Just Four Weeks in Office
France’s new Prime Minister, Sébastien Lecornu, has stepped down from his position less than a month after being appointed. The announcement came from the Élysée Palace on Monday, confirming that Lecornu submitted his resignation to President Emmanuel Macron, who accepted it immediately.
Lecornu, who was appointed only four weeks ago, had unveiled the allocation of key ministries on Sunday evening. However, his resignation came as a surprise, especially since he was expected to present his government statement to the National Assembly and announce more cabinet positions on Tuesday.
Political observers say the decision reflects deepening tension within France’s ruling coalition. The leader of the conservative Republicans, Bruno Retailleau, publicly criticized the new cabinet lineup and called for an emergency meeting on Monday to address his party’s dissatisfaction.
What caused Lecornu’s sudden resignation?
Reports suggest that disagreement between the conservatives and Macron’s centrist camp may have triggered the move. The conservatives had expressed frustration with their limited influence in the new cabinet, raising speculation that they might withdraw from the coalition altogether.
This development poses a new challenge for President Macron, whose party lacks a clear majority in parliament. Analysts say Lecornu’s resignation could lead to a period of political instability, as Macron now faces pressure to quickly appoint a replacement capable of uniting his fractured coalition.
Lecornu’s short tenure was one of the briefest in French political history, highlighting the growing struggle to maintain political balance and cooperation between coalition members. The resignation has also raised questions about the future direction of Macron’s government and its ability to maintain control amid rising public discontent.
