Emmanuel Macron’s former prime minister and one-time ally, Edouard Philippe, made a surprising call on Tuesday for the embattled French president to step down, further heightening a deepening political turmoil. Philippe, who served as Macron’s prime minister from 2017 to 2020 and now leads a allied political party, voiced his plea amidst increasing discontent within Macron’s own political circle over the most significant domestic crisis of his presidency.
Following Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu’s resignation on Monday due to his inability to garner sufficient support from the center-right coalition for his new government, which also lacks majority backing in parliament, Macron urged him to make a final attempt to secure coalition support. However, efforts proved futile as the far right faction declined to participate in discussions.
The upcoming 2027 presidential elections in France are anticipated as a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape, with the far-right led by Marine Le Pen sensing a strong opportunity to seize power. Macron, ineligible for a third term as per the constitution, faces mounting pressure as Philippe, who has announced his candidacy, suggested advancing the elections post the budget approval. Philippe’s comments, described as a “political bomb” by Le Parisien, criticized the ongoing political turmoil and emphasized the need for Macron to lead the country out of the crisis gracefully.
Labeling the situation as a “distressing political maneuver,” Philippe emphasized that it is Macron’s responsibility to guide France through the crisis in a dignified manner by ensuring institutional continuity through a smooth departure. Philippe conveyed his sentiments during an interview with RTL broadcaster.