French President Emmanuel Macron announced in a TV interview on Tuesday that the country's centrist caretaker government will remain in place until the end of the Olympic Games in mid-August to prevent disorder. This decision follows the selection of civil servant Lucie Castets as the prime minister by the leftist coalition that secured the most votes in the recent parliamentary elections.
Macron emphasized that the current caretaker government will continue to manage current affairs during the Olympics, which conclude on August 11. He cited the need to avoid disruptions and maintain stability until mid-August due to the absence of a dominant political bloc in power following the parliamentary elections.
There is no set deadline for Macron to appoint a new prime minister, as he holds the authority to make the decision. However, the chosen prime minister would require the support of a majority of lawmakers to prevent a potential no-confidence vote.
Castets, a seasoned civil servant with educational backgrounds from prestigious institutions, has experience working in key financial and anti-money laundering units. Described by the New Popular Front as a champion of public services and an advocate against retirement at 64, Castets has also been recognized for her efforts in combating tax fraud and financial crimes.
While some political figures have endorsed Castets' appointment, others, like a member of the far-right National Rally, have criticized the selection. The political landscape in France remains divided among major groupings, including the New Popular Front, Macron's centrist allies, and the far-right National Rally led by Marine Le Pen.
The uncertainty in government formation stems from the fragmented results of the recent elections, leaving France on the verge of potential governance challenges. Macron, with a presidential mandate until 2027, faces the task of navigating the complex political landscape to ensure effective governance during this transitional period.
