France has ushered in yet another government as Prime Minister François Bayrou revealed his cabinet on December 18, 2024, following extensive negotiations with President Emmanuel Macron. This announcement marks the culmination of tense discussions held amid national mourning for the victims of the recent cyclone Chido, which has devastated the island of Mayotte.
Bayrou, who was appointed on December 13, is stepping up to lead his first government amid unprecedented political instability. His predecessor, Michel Barnier, was ousted just three months prior after criticisms from both left-wing and far-right deputies. The level of disarray has now seen Bayrou's appointment as the sixth prime minister since Macron first took office.
The new cabinet includes notable figures such as Gérald Darmanin, assigned as Minister of Justice, and Élisabeth Borne, who has returned to lead the Ministry of Education. Manuel Valls, another former prime minister, takes charge of Overseas Affairs, bringing his experience back to the forefront during this tumultuous period.
During the announcement of the government, Bayrou expressed his pride, stating, "I am very proud of the team presented this evening," emphasizing his desire to form a broad coalition to tackle pressing national issues. His approach aims to unite representatives from various political factions, including right, center, and left.
Despite this vision, members of the opposition quickly voiced their concerns. Jordan Bardella, the leader of the National Rally, criticized Bayrou's government as "the coalition of failure," echoing sentiments from the left and right. Olivier Faure, head of the Socialist Party, called the government formation "a provocation," reflecting widespread discontent with the inclusion of figures like Darmanin, whose controversial statements have raised eyebrows among feminist groups.
Bayrou's government must also navigate the urgent task of preparing the budget for 2025, all under the cautious eyes of both the public and financial markets. The political tension culminated with France observing a minute of silence at 11:00 AM on the day of the announcement, honoring the victims of the cyclone, whose toll is estimated at at least 35 dead and over 2,500 injured.
The cabinet formation, developed through careful consultations and negotiations, is plagued by apprehension about stability and effectiveness, with both leftist and rightist opposition leaders calling for accountability. Critics like Jean-Philippe Tanguy deemed the extended delay unacceptable, remarking, "This situation is unbearable," as lawmakers await concrete actions and reforms.
Bayrou's task of integrating varying political persuasions sends ripples through the political fabric of France. His government will face scrutiny from both within and outside as it seeks to unite factions and address significant national crises.
Notably, the absence of the left's Nouveau Front Populaire from the cabinet reflects the current fragmentation of French political parties, with Bayrou aiming to gather support from various backgrounds, albeit facing restrictions from some factions. The Socialist Party's refusal to join the cabinet is indicative of the challenges Bayrou will face as he tries to pursue his agenda.
The new cabinet includes several experienced ministers with deep-rooted political histories, giving Bayrou hope for reconciliation and stability. Yet, with Bayrou's government proclaimed amid such challenging circumstances, the road forward is fraught with potential pitfalls. The first cabinet meeting is scheduled for January 3, where the new ministers will begin addressing their considerable responsibilities under Bayrou's leadership.
With France's political climate remaining tumultuous, the public will be closely watching for tangible progress and the administration's response to pressing issues, including the aftermath of the cyclone and budgetary challenges.
