François Bayrou Unveils New Government Amid Political Uncertainty

The coalition government includes familiar faces from past administrations as Bayrou seeks to navigate a fractured parliament and looming no-confidence vote.

Prime Minister François Bayrou announced a 34-member government featuring a mix of centrist, right-wing, and left-wing figures, including several high-profile returns such as Elisabeth Borne and Manuel Valls.
The government retains key ministers from the previous administration, including Bruno Retailleau as Interior Minister and Sébastien Lecornu as Defense Minister, ensuring continuity in critical roles.
Bayrou faces criticism for forming what some describe as a 'recycled' cabinet, with opposition figures questioning its ability to address France's pressing challenges, including a fractured parliament and fiscal instability.
Xavier Bertrand declined to join the cabinet, citing concerns over perceived reliance on far-right approval, highlighting ongoing tensions within the coalition-building process.
The new government must survive a no-confidence vote in January 2025, with Bayrou warning of dire consequences for France's political stability if his administration fails.