French President Emmanuel Macron has rejected an attempt by the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) coalition to put forward Lucie Castets, a civil servant, as their candidate for prime minister. The NFP won the most seats in the recent parliamentary elections, but not an outright majority. Macron said he will not name a new government until after the Paris Olympics in mid-August, stating that the key issue is which parliamentary group can form a majority, not the specific name of the prime minister candidate. He wants to appoint a PM with the "broadest backing possible."
The left-wing parties, including Jean-Luc Mélenchon's France Unbowed and the Socialists, accused Macron of trying to "cancel the result of the legislative elections" and not respecting the will of voters. They argue Castets should be appointed as PM, citing her record in public service. Castets is a 37-year-old economist with no background in party politics, and her nomination was seen as an attempt to pressure Macron before his TV appearance.
Macron's centrist alliance suffered heavy losses in the elections, and he has asked the current Prime Minister Gabriel Attal and his ministers to remain as a caretaker government until replacements can be appointed. The decision has angered the left-wing parties, who are demanding Macron respect the election outcome and appoint Castets as the new prime minister.
Reference: Christy C. & Paul K. (24 Jul, 2024) French President Emmanuel Macron has rejected an attempt by the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) as their candidate for prime minister.
Retrieved from: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/czvx9q1wn47o
Macron rejects left bid to name PM before Olympics
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