President Emmanuel Macron has reappointed Sébastien Lecornu as France’s Prime Minister just days after Lecornu stepped down, reigniting tensions in a fractured political landscape.
Lecornu originally resigned on Monday, October 6, after unveiling a new cabinet that collapsed within hours due to political backlash and internal dissent. But Macron brought him back on Friday, October 10, tasking him again with forming a government capable of navigating the legislative deadlock.
On Sunday, October 12, Lecornu unveiled his second government, retaining several key figures while introducing fresh faces in an apparent attempt to broaden his support base. Among the notable appointments was Laurent Nuñez as Interior Minister, replacing a previous incumbent.
Lecornu also kept Roland Lescure at the helm of the Finance Ministry, signaling continuity in fiscal management.
The reappointment comes amid one of the most volatile political crises France has faced in decades. Since the snap legislative elections of 2024, Macron has struggled to command a stable majority in a deeply divided National Assembly. Three prime ministers have already come and gone under his leadership in less than two years.
Lecornu now faces the difficult task of passing the 2026 budget under tremendous pressure. With the government weak and parliamentary support uncertain, both the far right and far left have submitted motions of no confidence. The Socialist Party, whose backing could determine Lecornu’s survival, has demanded concessions such as reversing pension reforms and introducing a billionaire tax.
Despite the energy behind his commission, Lecornu’s mandate is precarious at best. His government must act quickly: scheduled to present the national budget within days, it must demonstrate cohesion and political will to fend off collapse.
President Macron, now navigating accusations of centralizing power and ignoring pluralism, has reaffirmed that Lecornu has “carte blanche” to negotiate with parties and reforge a parliamentary coalition.
Whether Lecornu can stabilize the government and restore a degree of normalcy to French politics remains the key test ahead.
