After eight years in office, Emmanuel Macron's position as president is coming under increasing pressure as France's political crisis escalates.
Macron once called himself maître des horloges - master of the clocks - but his command of timing is not what it was. For the third time in a year, his choice of prime minister has resigned, and opinion polls suggest almost three-quarters of voters think the president should step down too.
Long-time ally Édouard Philippe has suggested a technocrat prime minister and an orderly presidential election to stabilize the situation.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced his resignation on a dramatic political day after just 26 days in position. He returned for last-minute negotiations in an attempt to hold the government together amid fears over France’s escalating debt. The precarious situation followed a hung parliament formed after Macron's decision to call early elections.
Challenges facing the new prime minister involve addressing a staggering national debt of €3,345 billion—almost 114% of GDP. Failed austerity plans and growing political divisions have plagued previous administrations, pushing Lecornu out on the basis that all parties act as if they have a majority.
Several key figures, including Marine Le Pen and Jean-Luc Mélenchon, have been vocal in calling for Macron’s resignation, further complicating the political landscape. The situation looms large as discussions continue about the future direction of France and the potential for fresh elections.
With options running thin and time is clearly not on Macron's side, the question remains: has he run out of road?
