Protests Erupt Across France Over Barnier’s Appointment as Prime Minister

Protests have broken out across France following President Emmanuel Macron’s appointment of centre-right politician Michel Barnier as Prime Minister, a move that has drawn backlash from left-wing parties accusing Macron of disregarding the results of the recent legislative elections.

Demonstrations occurred in major cities including Paris, Nantes, Nice, Marseille, and Strasbourg, reflecting widespread discontent over Macron’s decision to appoint Barnier instead of a candidate from the far-left bloc, despite the polarizing outcome of the July legislative elections.

Authorities reported a relatively low turnout across the country, but the demonstrations underscored a significant dissatisfaction among segments of the electorate.

The left-wing France Unbowed party, led by Jean-Luc Mélenchon, has been particularly critical, arguing that Barnier’s conservative background represents a dismissal of the voters’ will. Protesters echoed Mélenchon’s sentiments, accusing Macron of undermining democracy with Barnier’s appointment, further intensifying the already tense political atmosphere in France, which is the EU’s second-largest economy.