France Appoints Fifth Prime Minister in Two Years Amidst Nationwide Protests

Paris, France – Sébastien Lecornu assumed office as France's new prime minister on September 10, 2025, becoming the fifth individual to hold the position in just two years. His appointment comes as tens of thousands of citizens across the nation engaged in widespread demonstrations, dubbed "Block Everything," protesting against President Emmanuel Macron's government, austerity measures, and persistent political gridlock. The protests saw streets blocked, bins set ablaze, and clashes with police, reflecting boiling anger.

Lecornu's predecessor, François Bayrou, was ousted after losing a no-confidence vote in the National Assembly, highlighting the deep parliamentary divisions. The fragmented parliament, where no single party holds an absolute majority, has made governing challenging for Macron's centrist alliance, leading to frequent changes in leadership and legislative stalemates. The new prime minister, a loyalist to President Macron, now faces the immediate challenge of navigating an unruly parliament and an impending budget deadline.

The "Block Everything" movement, gaining traction online, mobilized citizens against proposed budget cuts of 44 billion euros aimed at tackling France's significant national debt. Protesters, including labor unions and various political factions, allege these measures disproportionately affect the working class and fear cuts to salaries and pensions. As stated in the tweet, "tens of thousands protested against Macron’s government, austerity, and political gridlock."

The political instability is further exacerbated by widespread public discontent with President Macron's policies and leadership style. Opposition parties, including the far-left France Unbowed and the far-right National Rally, have called for Macron's resignation or snap parliamentary elections. The appointment of another close ally like Lecornu is seen by critics as a continuation of a strategy that has failed to ease public frustration.

Lecornu, formerly the Minister of Armed Forces, takes the helm amid threats of a no-confidence vote from the left. His ability to secure cross-party support for critical legislation, particularly the budget, will be a key test of his tenure. The ongoing protests and political deadlock underscore the significant challenges facing France as it grapples with economic pressures and a deeply polarized political landscape.