The French government of centrist Prime Minister Francois Bayrou collapsed on Monday after failing to secure a vote of confidence in the National Assembly.
Government Collapse
On Monday, 8 September, the centrist government of Prime Minister Francois Bayrou fell after losing a confidence vote in the National Assembly. Bayrou’s minority cabinet was the third different government in the country in the past 18 months.
Premier’s Final Statements
In his farewell address to Parliament, Bayrou defended his controversial austerity measures that led to the government’s downfall, stating, “You can dismiss this government, but you cannot wipe away reality.”
Opposition Demands Bigger Changes
Leftist parties called for President Macron’s resignation alongside that of Bayrou’s government, while far-right leader Marine Le Pen demanded not only a change of administration but also an acceleration of parliamentary elections. Radical left representatives went further, insisting President Bayrou step down immediately and make way for Macron.
