French lawmakers have voted to oust Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s government, just three months after he took office, deepening the political crisis in France. This marks the first time in 60 years that a French government has been brought down through a vote of no confidence.
Before the vote, Barnier had expressed confidence in a television interview, believing his government could survive the no-confidence motion. However, the far-right party, National Rally (RN), made it clear on Wednesday morning that it would join forces with left-wing parties to bring down the government. The combined votes from both sides were enough to secure its defeat.
Ahead of the debate on the motion, National Rally lawmaker Laure Lavalette told TF1 TV that her party would unquestionably support the vote. When asked about the catastrophic consequences warned by Barnier and his ministers, Lavalette dismissed the concerns, saying, “There’s no reason why this should lead to chaos. Everything won’t collapse.”
After the vote, President Emmanuel Macron may ask Barnier to remain in office temporarily until a new prime minister can be appointed, a process that could take place next year.
Political analysts and economists have warned that the crisis could harm businesses, consumers, and taxpayers, potentially destabilizing the French economy.
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