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Macron Misses Deadline to Name New Prime Minister as Bayrou Ruled Out, Le Drian Declines

Dec 13, 2024, 09:22 AM

France awaits the delayed appointment of a new Prime Minister as President Emmanuel Macron struggles to find a successor to Michel Barnier, who was ousted last week after a vote of no confidence. Macron had initially promised to name a new Prime Minister within 48 hours but missed the deadline. François Bayrou, leader of the centrist MoDem party and a long-time ally of Macron, was widely considered the front-runner. However, after a 1 hour and 45-minute meeting at the Elysée Palace, reports indicate that Macron informed Bayrou at 5am that he would not be appointed. Bayrou left the Elysée via a back door, suggesting tensions. Former Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian has also declined the role due to his age. Despite a handover ceremony at Matignon scheduled for late morning, the identity of the new Prime Minister remains unknown. The delay has caused frustration among politicians and the public, heightening calls for swift action to restore political stability.