Macron surprises observers by reappointing Lecornu as prime minister

Saturday 11 October 2025 - 11:50

Emmanuel Macron has once again appointed Sébastien Lecornu as France’s prime minister, a decision that has sparked surprise and criticism both domestically and internationally. The move comes after a period of political uncertainty and a series of short-lived premierships.

Political reaction in France has been swift and sharp. Jordan Bardella, leader of the Rassemblement national, described the appointment as “a democratic embarrassment and an affront to the French people.” Marine Tondelier, national secretary of the Ecologists, criticized the president for refusing to cede power despite electoral setbacks, stating that Macron’s decision “ignores the clear direction the electorate has expressed.”

Internationally, the decision has drawn attention as well. Germany’s Bild newspaper suggested Macron is trapped in a cycle of political miscalculations, noting that by reinstating Lecornu, the president defies calls for a prime minister from the left or an independent figure. Belgium’s Le Soir described the situation as a “return to square one” after tedious consultations and political deadlock.

Spanish newspaper El País characterized Macron’s late-night announcement as a gamble, highlighting the growing distance between the president and a frustrated French public weary of political instability. According to the report, the decision alienates not only the Socialist Party but also centrist and conservative allies, including Horizons and Les Républicains, with no party eager to support Lecornu.

The Guardian framed Lecornu’s reappointment as a last-chance effort amid ongoing political fragmentation. The French Parliament remains divided among left, far-right, and centrist factions, with no clear majority, while the government struggles to pass critical legislation.

The Washington Post emphasized the broader context of political dysfunction, noting that Macron’s administration faces severe debt and deficit challenges. Previous attempts to reduce spending or raise taxes have fueled public dissatisfaction and contributed to the rapid turnover of three prime ministers in a single year.

Reuters highlighted that Lecornu’s immediate priority is to present a budget to Parliament, a task complicated by deep divisions over fiscal policy. The Washington Examiner similarly stressed that Lecornu must navigate the urgent need to stabilize France’s finances while managing widespread political fragmentation.