Edouard Philippe, the former Prime Minister of France, recently articulated his vision for the future during the second interregional congress of his political party, Horizons, held on March 16, 2025, in Lille. His presentation was marked by pointed criticism directed at Francois Bayrou, the leader of the MoDem party, amid their longstanding rivalry.
Philippe's comments came as he faced accusations from Bayrou, who had labeled his earlier critiques as 'anti-national'. This exchange dated back to February 1, 2025, when Bayrou made his remarks during an interview with La Tribune Dimanche. Addressing the audience of approximately 1,600 supporters, Philippe responded directly to Bayrou's claims. He expressed his frustration with the alleged mischaracterizations, stating, "When I say not much decisive will happen over the next two years, I do not say it to rejoice. It’s the expression of indignant lucidity." Philippe defended his position by contending, "The France is too poorly off for us to get upset over the little phrases of those who confuse discourse and action."
The backdrop of Philippe’s congress was the newly formed tensions related to the convening of Bayrou’s 'conclave' on pensions, which Philippe dismissed as "completely detached and totally outdated" for the current political climate. Their differences were stark and apparent, with Philippe asserting, "I want to restore French power," clearly positioning himself as determined and proactive as he launched his presidential campaign for the elections slated for 2027.
This congress served not only as the backdrop for his campaign launch but also as the arena where Philippe outlined his vision to revitalise the French political dynamic. He criticized the current government’s handling of key issues such as pension reforms, citing the need for significant change. Philippe articulated the need for a comprehensive pension system encompassing private, public, and independent sectors, which he plans to implement should he ascend to the Élysée. By advocating for significant changes, he projects himself as both initiator and innovator.
Philippe's strategy reflects his frustrations over current political limitations, especially under what he calls the dismal international conditions which, as he indicated, would impede substantial progress domestically. Highlighting the geopolitical tensions, he explicitly criticized the actions and attitudes of U.S. President Donald Trump, who has threatened to halt military support to Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia. Philippe affirmed his support for the actions of President Macron, who he sees as placing France's strategic autonomy at the forefront of European agenda since 2017.
The interactions with Bayrou reveal not just personal animosities but also the larger political narrative at play as Philippe seeks to delineate his strategy from those of his opposition. Bayrou, clearly annoyed by Philippe's observations on the work program for the upcoming period, faced the brunt of Philippe's sharp wit, as the former Prime Minister called out the slender approach proposed by Bayrou’s party.
The prime challenge facing Philippe will be formulating solid proposals as he prepares to roll out his complete political program, expected to be unveiled only by May 2026, following municipal elections. Phillip's cautious timeline amplifies the strategic caution as he prepares for potential legislative elections. He hinted at plans to dissolve the Assembly, should he gain the presidency, emphasizing the necessity of aligning the governmental structure with the will of the people, which includes potential referendums on the pressing issues affecting the nation’s future.
By reiteratively stating his belief the legislative elections must coincide with any new reforms, Philippe indicates his commitment to engaging the electorate on governance, especially surrounding issues like pensions and the conception of administrative roles within French governance. The intent is clear: Philppe aims to highlight the disparity between his proactive visions and the perceived inactivity of the current government.
Prominent attendees at the congress included figures like Gérald Darmanin and Violette Spillebout, who lent their support to Philippe's cause, emphasizing the broader coalition he seeks to build. Darmanin’s remarks echoed the sentiments of the crowd, conveying his hopes of finding strong ideas and proposals from Philippe’s platform.
Philippe’s message is one of hope and resilience, framed against the current political disillusionment. His impassioned advocacy for French revivification resonates with his party members and potentially establishes him as not just another candidate, but as the one who aims to channel the voices and issues of the French populace as he approaches the 2027 presidential elections.
