French Prime Minister François Bayrou unveiled his new government on December 23, 2024, just ten days after his appointment, during a live interview on BFMTV. The government composition reflects Bayrou’s strategy to navigate France through its current economic and political challenges.
During the televised announcement made from the Élysée Palace's winter garden, it was specified who would take pivotal roles within the administration. Bruno Retailleau remains as Interior Minister, François Rebsamen will manage Territorial Development, and former Caisse des Dépôts director Éric Lombard has taken charge of the Economy. Other notable appointments include the return of Manuel Valls as Overseas Minister and Elisabeth Borne as Minister of Education, indicating Bayrou’s intent to blend seasoned politicians with fresh perspectives.
Bayrou has positioned himself as both the face of consensus and as a centrist figure within French politics. "I think we're in the most difficult situation we've been in since the second world war," he emphasized during his interview, highlighting the urgency of the nation’s issues. He attributed wide-ranging public sentiment about insecurity to fundamental concerns about governance and economic stability. "The great majority of French people think we live in a country of insecurity," he observed, recognizing it as part of his government’s immediate priorities.
Notably, Gérald Darmanin transitioned from Interior to Justice Minister, which was once speculated to be held by competitor Xavier Bertrand. Bayrou categorically dismissed claims of external influences on the cabinet formation, particularly from Marine Le Pen's National Rally, stating, "I will not provoke new taxes on businesses" and indicating his commitment to fiscal responsibility without imposing new burdens on the economy.
The Prime Minister’s government features ministers from varying political backgrounds, indicated by the inclusion of figures like Borne and Valls. Valls, who previously served as Prime Minister under François Hollande, emphasized his focus on rescuing Mayotte, the Indian Ocean archipelago impacted by Cyclone Chido, where at least 35 people lost their lives. Bayrou insisted, "One of the most pressing issues for this country are overseas territories," vowing to provide attention to the needs of these vulnerable regions.
Critics have quickly surfaced, primarily from opposition parties. Mathilde Panot, leader of the left-wing France Unbowed party, branded Bayrou's selection as filled with individuals rejected by voters. "It is a government filled with people rejected at the ballot box... with the support of Marine Le Pen and the National Rally," she declared, voicing concerns over perceived political alliances and pushing for immediate policy scrutiny.
Further indicating his confidence, Bayrou noted his belief against the likelihood of being censured by the National Assembly, as he stated, “I am persuaded my team will not be censured.” This confidence will soon be tested as the government’s first cabinet meeting is scheduled for January 3, 2025, and Bayrou is preparing to deliver his policy speech to Parliament on January 14.
While the makeup of the government has sparked both criticism and cautious optimism, Bayrou remains steadfast on his refusal to delay significant reforms, particularly around the contentious topic of pensions. He openly rejected calls to suspend the 2023 pension reform, standing firm against what he described as ungrounded demands from the leftist opposition. “Non, je ne ferai pas ça,” translated as “No, I will not do this,” was his rebuttal when asked about postponing discussions on pension reforms.
This government aims to not only reclaim political stability but also to restore public confidence during challenging times. The mix of returning incumbents and fresh appointments aims to bring both experience and new momentum. Bayrou's leadership philosophy appears to be about seeking stability through unity, saying, "If we want to fight the immense problems France is facing at the moment, we cannot let disagreements rule." His administration will seek to establish firm foundations as they address what he describes as countless challenges within the country.
