France expected to unveil new government | The Express Tribune
Key Takeaways
- Tens of thousands protested across France on Thursday against planned public spending cuts.
- President Emmanuel Macron is expected to name a new, leaner government this weekend.
- Macron is currently facing his worst popularity levels amid a worsening political and economic crisis.
- Trade unions claimed 600,000 protesters participated, while the interior ministry reported 195,000.
- Sebastien Lecornu is expected to be named as Macron's seventh prime minister.
Tens of thousands of people protested throughout France on Thursday in opposition to proposed public spending cuts, amidst reports that President Emmanuel Macron will appoint a new government this weekend. Macron, who has only 18 months remaining in his term, is grappling with his lowest popularity ratings while trying to navigate France through a deepening political and economic crisis. Sources indicate that the president plans to assemble a more streamlined cabinet under Sebastien Lecornu, who will become his seventh prime minister. Trade unions, including the leftist CGT, called for the demonstrations, claiming 600,000 people participated nationwide, though the interior ministry estimated the turnout at 195,000. This level of participation was notably lower than the massive demonstration held two weeks earlier. Hard-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon commented on the atmosphere, stating, "You can feel that the country is changing," during a rally in Paris.
