This Saturday, a large wave of protest is forming across France – and not without reason. The left is on the barricades, supported by student associations and other organizations. The spark that ignited these political protests is the appointment of Michel Barnier as the new Prime Minister by President Emmanuel Macron. It is not just a political decision, but the accusation of a “coup de force” against democratic processes. What is behind it?
Lucie Castets and the “coup de force”
It all started with the rejection of Lucie Castets as prime minister. Castets, candidate of the New Popular Front (Nouveau Front Populaire, NFP), was seen as the hope of the left. Her name stood for a new political chapter in France, but Macron decided against it and instead chose Michel Barnier as prime minister – a conservative from the Republican camp. For many on the left of the political spectrum, this was an affront, a move that not only targeted their candidate but also undermined the principle of political balance. No wonder anger is running high.
The reaction was not long in coming: La France Insoumise (LFI) and several student organizations immediately called for nationwide protests after Barnier’s appointment. This Saturday, more than 150 demonstrations are scheduled to take place across France – the largest, of course, in Paris. But what does this mean for Macron and his political survival?
Michel Barnier: The man in the storm
With Michel Barnier, Macron has put an experienced politician at the head of the government – someone who presents himself as a confident negotiator and pragmatic. Barnier brings with him the experience of a long political career, including as the EU’s former chief Brexit negotiator, and presents himself as a man of the centre. His promise: an open ear for left-wing forces and a willingness to open the government to them. Whether that will be enough to calm the angry opposition, however, is more than questionable.
Barnier has already set clear priorities: migration should be more strictly controlled, national debt must not rise any further, and work must be given more value. These points appeal primarily to conservative voters, but where is the bridge to the left? Many see him as a mere henchman of Macron – a man who is pushing the country further to the right. For Jean-Luc Mélenchon, the head of the left-wing party La France Insoumise (LFI), the matter is clear: the election was “stolen” and Barnier is proof of this.
The role of political rivals
In this simmering political environment, former Prime Minister Édouard Philippe has also become the focus of attention. While rumors have circulated that he is working behind the scenes to destabilize Macron, Philippe has vehemently denied pursuing such an agenda. Instead, he has made it clear that he respects Macron and wants the president to complete his term. But the question remains: if the political situation continues to escalate, could he position himself accordingly and launch a presidential campaign of his own?
The Rassemblement National (RN) has also found its own role in this situation on the right-wing fringe of the political spectrum. The party has gained a lot of influence in recent months and sees itself in a position where it can significantly influence France’s political course. For many, the RN is the “party of destiny” – it can determine where France will develop in the coming years. Will they come to terms with Barnier or continue to stoke tensions?
The numbers speak volumes
Originally, a relatively small mobilization was expected: 15,000 people nationwide, including around 2,000 in Paris. But the estimates have now doubled. Up to 30,000 demonstrators are now expected across the country – in the capital alone, between 4,000 and 8,000 people could take to the streets. The protests therefore appear to be gaining momentum.
The deep divide between the camps
France’s political landscape has long been divided, but current events are deepening this divide. While Macron and Barnier are trying to ensure stability, many in the opposition – especially on the left – see these decisions as a provocation. They feel ignored and excluded.
But what could be the end of this political tug-of-war? An agreement seems far away. The left is demanding a radical change of course, while the government does not want to give up its conservative line. At the same time, the extreme right is trying to capitalize on the situation. The ground is set for a heated political battle – and this in a country that traditionally does not shy away from mass protests.
And now?
It will be interesting to see how the situation develops. Will Barnier actually make the promised opening towards the left when putting together his cabinet? Or will he stick with a government that relies on conservative forces? Will the protests increase the pressure on Macron to such an extent that he has to make concessions?
One thing is certain: the next few days and weeks will show how robust Macron’s presidency really is. Whether he is able to master the balancing act between the political camps remains questionable – and France’s streets will play a crucial role in this.
