Overview

• Richard Ferrand, a longtime ally of Emmanuel Macron, is the likely nominee to lead the Conseil Constitutionnel, replacing Laurent Fabius after his term ends on March 7, 2025.
• Macron's decision to nominate Ferrand aligns with a tradition of appointing politically close figures to the role, as seen with past presidents' choices like Jean-Louis Debré and Laurent Fabius.
• Critics, including opposition politicians and constitutional experts, have raised concerns about Ferrand's close ties to Macron and his damaged public image potentially undermining the institution's credibility.
• The formal announcement of Ferrand's nomination is expected on February 10, followed by reviews by the legislative law commissions on February 19, where a three-fifths veto from the Assembly and Senate could block his appointment.
• Ferrand's potential appointment is part of broader leadership changes in key French institutions, including upcoming replacements at the Caisse des Dépôts and the Élysée's secretary general position.