Macron Backs Bayrou Ahead of High-Stakes Confidence Vote
Paris, The Gulf Observer: French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday convened a high-level cabinet meeting to express his “full support” for Prime Minister François Bayrou ahead of a crucial confidence vote scheduled for September 8.
The confidence motion, initiated by Bayrou, is viewed as a last attempt to secure parliamentary approval for his controversial austerity budget, which includes approximately €44 billion in spending cuts. Among the measures are the elimination of two public holidays and a freeze on welfare benefits, proposals that have triggered strong criticism across the political spectrum.
The upcoming vote comes amid a sharply divided National Assembly. Opposition parties from both the far left and the far right have already declared their intention to oppose Bayrou’s government, raising the likelihood of its collapse. The situation has unsettled financial markets and heightened concerns about potential political instability within France and the wider European Union.
During Wednesday’s cabinet session, President Macron urged political leaders to act with responsibility at what he described as a critical juncture. While reaffirming his confidence in Bayrou’s leadership, Macron did not rule out alternative courses of action should the government fall. These include appointing a new prime minister, dissolving the National Assembly, or—in a less likely scenario—resigning from office.
The outcome of the September 8 vote is expected to shape France’s political trajectory and its standing within the European bloc in the months ahead.
