Political Turmoil in France as Prime Minister Lecornu Resigns
On October 6, 2025, Sebastien Lecornu resigned from his position as prime minister just 13 hours after unveiling his Cabinet and a mere 27 days following his appointment. His departure has ignited calls for early legislative elections from the far-right National Rally party and has prompted the left to pursue impeachment proceedings against President Emmanuel Macron, reports 24brussels.
In a swift reaction, National Rally President Jordan Bardella urged Macron to dissolve the National Assembly and schedule new snap elections. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen emphasized that Macron bears primary responsibility for the current political chaos, asserting that a viable solution cannot emerge under the existing makeup of Parliament. “There is no solution, and there won’t be one tomorrow,” she declared.
Le Pen further criticized Macron for exacerbating the political crisis, accusing him of “irrationally resisting institutions.” RN spokesperson Sebastien Chenu described the situation as a “state in crisis,” lamenting the series of ineffective governments, paralyzed institutions, and an increasingly neglected populace. Lecornu’s resignation marks the fifth government to fold during Macron’s second term, making it the shortest-lived administration to date.
Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the left-wing France Unbowed (LFI), called for “immediate consideration” of an impeachment motion against Macron, which has garnered support from 104 deputies in the National Assembly. The LFI has proposed a meeting with other left-wing parties in the New Popular Front (NFP) coalition to discuss strategies in what Mélenchon described as an “unprecedented situation in French history.”
Marine Tondelier, leader of the Greens, announced intentions to consult with all party partners but withheld further specifics. She stated, “Our political movement must rise to the occasion of history and the difficulties our country is facing,” highlighting the urgency of the situation for the French populace.
While the Socialist Party initially refrained from responding to Mélenchon’s call, leader Arthur Delaporte expressed that LFI’s involvement in any potential government would result in immediate censure. Socialist leader Olivier Faure commended Lecornu for resigning “with dignity and honor,” while parliamentary leader Boris Vallaud asserted that “universal suffrage” is the sole solution.
Tensions within the governing coalition escalated, particularly among the conservative Republicans (LR). Vice President François-Xavier Bellamy dismissed fears of a dissolution, while party demands allegedly unmet by Lecornu culminated in his resignation, which he attributed to “partisan appetites” and “egos.” Cannes Mayor David Lisnard also called for Macron’s resignation, arguing it was necessary to safeguard institutions and addressing the critical juncture facing the Fifth Republic.
As events unfold, the focus remains on how this political turmoil will develop and what implications it may have for France’s governance.
