Macron appoints centrist François Bayrou as new prime minister of France

MADRID Dec. 13 () –

French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed veteran centrist politician François Bayrou, leader of the Democratic Movement (Modem), as the new prime minister, replacing Michel Barnier.

The National Assembly overthrew the Government of Michel Barnier in a motion of censure voted on December 4 and which had the support of left-wing and far-right groups, in an unprecedented milestone in more than half a century that gave way to a new round of contacts.

On this occasion, Macron chose to get closer to the left-wing parties – with the exception of La Francia Insumisa – and leave aside Marine Le Pen’s National Group, although it remains to be seen whether the new Executive will be able to add a minimum level of support among legislators and avoid future motions.

The leader of the Socialist Party, Olivier Faure, tested as potential support, demanded during the negotiations the appointment of a left-wing prime minister and ruled out supporting some of the names that appeared in the pools, such as the centrist François Bayrou.