President Emmanuel Macron is always visible on the international stage as the face of European diplomacy in the war in Ukraine. But domestically, his ground is shaking. With five prime ministers in and out of the revolving door, one might think his time is up. But not so fast. France’s unique political system might ensure he completes his term in 2027 despite political and economic headwinds and social unrest. Here are his challenges — and why he might survive the storm.<h2>Emmanuel Macron’s second term descends into paralysis</h2>Macron is set to announce his sixth prime minister on Friday (Oct 10). Once seen as a centrist reformer and European leader, Macron now presides over a France beset by political gridlock, economic stagnation, and social unrest that regularly triggers protests. His approval rating has plummeted to 17 per cent, and five prime ministers have cycled through office in under three years — instability unseen since the Fourth Republic.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-at-a-political-crossroads-as-calls-for-macron-s-ouster-grows-1759944053069/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-at-a-political-crossroads-as-calls-for-macron-s-ouster-grows-1759944053069/embed</a><h2>Macron’s decision to dissolve parliament in 2024 backfired</h2>Arguably overconfident, Macron called snap elections in 2024, which resulted in a hung National Assembly. His Renaissance party holds only 166 seats, trailing the left-wing New Popular Front (193) and the far-right National Rally (142). What followed was chaos. Prime Ministers Elisabeth Borne, Gabriel Attal, Michel Barnier, François Bayrou, and Sébastien Lecornu all failed to stabilise governance — with Lecornu’s tenure ending after just 27 days. Macron attempted cross-party talks, but perceptions of his irrelevance are growing.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-france-pm-eduardo-philippe-gabriel-attal-go-against-president-macron-and-want-early-election-1759846486546">Former PM and French president's ally Eduardo Philippe wants Macron to call for early election</a><h2>On French streets, anger continues to mount</h2>French streets remain a barometer of social tension. Macron’s pension reform — raising the retirement age from 62 to 64 — sparked mass protests. Austerity plans totalling €44 billion in savings triggered strikes. The “Bloquons Tout” movement has organised blockades, while unrest in New Caledonia over voting rights reforms has highlighted deep colonial-era fractures. Once a symbol of modernisation, Macron is now seen by many as elitist and socially divisive.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-warns-un-against-letting-survival-of-the-fittest-define-world-order-a-dig-at-trump-1758674204290">Macron warns UN against letting 'survival of the fittest' define world order. A dig at Trump's 'America First' vision?</a><h2>France faces a deepening fiscal crisis</h2>French public debt reached €3.346 trillion — or 114 per cent of GDP — in the first quarter of 2025. Deficits are projected at 5 to 5.4 per cent of GDP. Macron failed to pass the 2026 budget due to the parliamentary deadlock, forcing France to operate under emergency spending rules. Markets are jittery, and the risk of credit downgrades looms.<h2>Yet, Macron is unlikely to leave office early</h2>Despite some allies calling for his resignation, Macron is expected to serve his full term thanks to France’s constitutional system. The Constitution of the Fifth Republic ensures presidential stability. Impeachment is only possible in cases of a “breach of duties,” and requires supermajorities in both parliamentary chambers and a ruling by a special court. No French president has ever been removed this way. Charles de Gaulle resigned voluntarily in 1969; others left only after losing elections.<h2>Macron could still dissolve parliament again</h2>With 18 months left until the 2027 election, Macron technically could dissolve parliament again — but he is unlikely to do so. Even as a lame-duck president, powerless domestically but constitutionally protected, he has the right to remain.In the end, Macron has become a symbol of the very dysfunction he aimed to overcome as France’s youngest president. Politically isolated, economically constrained, and socially rejected, his authority has collapsed. But the system that protects the presidency ensures he stays — not because he can govern, but because he cannot be removed.

Emmanuel Macron’s presidency faces political chaos, social unrest, economic crisis and low approval ratings. But France’s constitutional system likely ensures the president can complete his term. Here are the odds


President Emmanuel Macron is always visible on the international stage as the face of European diplomacy in the war in Ukraine. But domestically, his ground is shaking. With five prime ministers in and out of the revolving door, one might think his time is up. But not so fast. France’s unique political system might ensure he completes his term in 2027 despite political and economic headwinds and social unrest. Here are his challenges — and why he might survive the storm. Emmanuel Macron’s second term descends into paralysis Macron is set to announce his sixth prime minister on Friday (Oct 10). Once seen as a centrist reformer and European leader, Macron now presides over a France beset by political gridlock, economic stagnation, and social unrest that regularly triggers protests. His approval rating has plummeted to 17 per cent, and five prime ministers have cycled through office in under three years — instability unseen since the Fourth Republic. https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-at-a-political-crossroads-as-calls-for-macron-s-ouster-grows-1759944053069/embed Macron’s decision to dissolve parliament in 2024 backfired Arguably overconfident, Macron called snap elections in 2024, which resulted in a hung National Assembly. His Renaissance party holds only 166 seats, trailing the left-wing New Popular Front (193) and the far-right National Rally (142). What followed was chaos. Prime Ministers Elisabeth Borne, Gabriel Attal, Michel Barnier, François Bayrou, and Sébastien Lecornu all failed to stabilise governance — with Lecornu’s tenure ending after just 27 days. Macron attempted cross-party talks, but perceptions of his irrelevance are growing. Also read: Former PM and French president's ally Eduardo Philippe wants Macron to call for early election On French streets, anger continues to mount French streets remain a barometer of social tension. Macron’s pension reform — raising the retirement age from 62 to 64 — sparked mass protests. Austerity plans totalling €44 billion in savings triggered strikes. The “Bloquons Tout” movement has organised blockades, while unrest in New Caledonia over voting rights reforms has highlighted deep colonial-era fractures. Once a symbol of modernisation, Macron is now seen by many as elitist and socially divisive. Also read: Macron warns UN against letting 'survival of the fittest' define world order. A dig at Trump's 'America First' vision? France faces a deepening fiscal crisis French public debt reached €3.346 trillion — or 114 per cent of GDP — in the first quarter of 2025. Deficits are projected at 5 to 5.4 per cent of GDP. Macron failed to pass the 2026 budget due to the parliamentary deadlock, forcing France to operate under emergency spending rules. Markets are jittery, and the risk of credit downgrades looms. Yet, Macron is unlikely to leave office early Despite some allies calling for his resignation, Macron is expected to serve his full term thanks to France’s constitutional system. The Constitution of the Fifth Republic ensures presidential stability. Impeachment is only possible in cases of a “breach of duties,” and requires supermajorities in both parliamentary chambers and a ruling by a special court. No French president has ever been removed this way. Charles de Gaulle resigned voluntarily in 1969; others left only after losing elections. Macron could still dissolve parliament again With 18 months left until the 2027 election, Macron technically could dissolve parliament again — but he is unlikely to do so. Even as a lame-duck president, powerless domestically but constitutionally protected, he has the right to remain. In the end, Macron has become a symbol of the very dysfunction he aimed to overcome as France’s youngest president. Politically isolated, economically constrained, and socially rejected, his authority has collapsed. But the system that protects the presidency ensures he stays — not because he can govern, but because he cannot be removed.

Emmanuel Macron’s presidency faces political chaos, social unrest, economic crisis and low approval ratings. But France’s constitutional system likely ensures the president can complete his term. Here are the odds&nbsp;

Game over for Emmanuel Macron? President is down, but not out yet. How the French system will protect him

French Prime Minister François Bayrou narrowly escapes a no-confidence vote in the National Assembly, following controversy over the government's proposed budget. The vote comes after heated debates and opposition concerns regarding fiscal policies and government spending.

French PM François Bayrou invokes article 49.3 to force budget through without vote

French PM François Bayrou survives no-confidence vote amid budget controversy

French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to appoint a new Prime Minister in the near future, following recent political developments. The decision comes amid ongoing discussions about reshaping France's leadership and governance. Macron's move aims to address current challenges and strengthen his administration's focus on key issues.

France: Emmanuel Macron Vows To Name New French PM Soon

French President Emmanuel Macron is set to meet political leaders from various parties on Friday (Dec 6) morning in a bid to establish a new “government of general interest” following the ousting of Prime Minister Michel Barnier through a no-confidence vote.

French President Emmanuel Macron is set to meet political leaders from various parties on Friday (Dec 6) morning in a bid to establish a new “government of general interest” following the ousting of Prime Minister Michel Barnier through a no-confidence vote. Macron will begin his meeting with representatives from centrist parties, including Renaissance, Horizons, and the Democratic Movement. Later in the day, he is scheduled to meet leaders from the Socialist Party, including First Secretary Olivier Faure, followed by members of Les Républicains. However, representatives from the far-right National Rally and La France Insoumise, the largest party in parliament, have been excluded from these discussions. Also read: Melbourne synagogue set on fire as police hunt for two masked men “I will ask them to form a government for the general interest,” Macron said, adding that the new government should include "every political force within the spectrum of parties destined to govern and that they could join or, at least, agree not to bring it down.” An announcement on the new government is unlikely before the weekend or Monday, and the full composition may take even longer to finalise. The move follows Macron’s acceptance of Barnier’s resignation on Thursday after the prime minister lost the confidence of the National Assembly. Barnier, who served for only three months, is now the shortest-serving prime minister in modern French history. His downfall came after he bypassed parliament to pass the contentious social security budget, prompting a no-confidence vote supported by a majority of lawmakers. In a televised address on Thursday, Macron reiterated his commitment to fulfilling his presidential term, which ends in 2027. "The mandate you have given me is for five years, and I will fulfil it until the very end," he said. He also announced plans to name Barnier's successor "in the coming days," adding that the priority for the new government will be addressing the budget. Watch: 'Five Eyes' Intelligence Partners Warn Over Terrorist Radicalisation Of Youth Macron thanked Barnier for his efforts during his brief tenure but accused far-right and far-left factions of forming an “anti-republican front” to topple the government. Responding to Macron’s comments, Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally, criticised the president, reminding him that censure motions are a legitimate part of the Fifth Republic’s Constitution. "A little reminder to President Macron, who is supposed to be the guarantor of the Constitution: censure is not anti-republican, it is provided for in the Constitution of our Fifth Republic," Marine Le Pen wrote on X. As per the Constitution, no new parliamentary elections can be held before July 2025, leaving Macron to navigate this political crisis without the option of snap elections. (With inputs from agencies)

France: Macron scrambles to form ‘government of general interest’ after no-confidence vote ousts Barnier

After becoming France's youngest-ever and first openly gay prime minister, Gabriel Attal on Wednesday (January 10) got busy deciding on choosing his cabinet which is expected to see a reshuffle as French President Emmanuel Macron prepares for the last three years of his presidency. Attal (34) succeeded Elizabeth Lorne (62) who tendered her resignation earlier.

It is expected that Attal would choose political heavyweights as he along with Macron face their&nbsp;first political test against right-wing Marine Le Pen in the European Parliament elections this June. Attal is also expected to make some moves to dispel notions about him being an inexperienced leader, suddenly chosen to assume a high office.

Watch | Gabriel Attal becomes France's youngest, first gay Prime Minister

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After his appointment as prime minister, Attal's first official engagement was meeting flood victims in northern France. It is not yet clear where exactly he will announce the cabinet reshuffle.

<h2>Who's in dock, who's not?</h2>

AFP has reported citing sources that the powerful Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin (41) is likely to be retained as he has received assurances from Macron to that effect.

The future of Bruno Le Maire, the Finance and Economy Minister, remains uncertain as it isn't clear whether he'll agree to work under Attal who was a junior minister in his own department.

There is uncertainty over the position of Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna just as it is with Transport Minister Clement Beaune's.

Attal will also have to find a replacement for the education ministry which he himself previously held.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-gabriel-attal-frances-new-pm-is-charismatic-openly-gay-and-youngest-ever-to-hold-office-at-34-678318">Meet Gabriel Attal: New French PM is charismatic, openly gay and youngest ever to hold office at 34</a>

Though Macron's decision to choose Attal as the PM signalled his intention to infuse young blood into his government, Attal's name wasn't finalised before some negotiations.

AFP said that before finalising Attal, Macron had to overcome opposition from some cabinet ministers and also key powerbrokers in French politics. These included ex-premier Edouard Philippe and Alexis Kohler, presidential chief of staff.

Reports in French media also said that there was some dispute before Macron zeroed in on Attal's name. Some reports have suggested that Attal will be overpowered by Macron, a seasoned hand in the presidential office by now.

In the French political system, the president is responsible for setting general policies while the job of running day-to-day government affairs falls on the shoulders of the prime minister. It is hence, the PM who may&nbsp;get more flak in case of any political or administrative turbulence.

It was seen an imperative for Macron to reshuffle his cabinet to prevent projecting an image of himself as a 'lame duck' leader. His centrist government has lost the parliamentary majority after 2022 elections.

Macron will not be able to contest 2027 presidential elections, a fact which is seen by many to be Marine Le Pen's best chance to become president.

(With inputs from agencies)

After becoming France's youngest-ever and first openly gay prime minister, Gabriel Attal on Wednesday (January 10) got busy deciding on choosing his cabinet which is expected to see a reshuffle as French President Emmanuel Macron prepares for the last three years of his presidency.

After becoming France's youngest-ever and first openly gay prime minister, Gabriel Attal on Wednesday (January 10) got busy deciding on choosing his cabinet which is expected to see a reshuffle as French President Emmanuel Macron prepares for the last three years of his presidency. Attal (34) succeeded Elizabeth Lorne (62) who tendered her resignation earlier. It is expected that Attal would choose political heavyweights as he along with Macron face their first political test against right-wing Marine Le Pen in the European Parliament elections this June. Attal is also expected to make some moves to dispel notions about him being an inexperienced leader, suddenly chosen to assume a high office. Watch | Gabriel Attal becomes France's youngest, first gay Prime Minister × After his appointment as prime minister, Attal's first official engagement was meeting flood victims in northern France. It is not yet clear where exactly he will announce the cabinet reshuffle. Who's in dock, who's not? AFP has reported citing sources that the powerful Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin (41) is likely to be retained as he has received assurances from Macron to that effect. The future of Bruno Le Maire, the Finance and Economy Minister, remains uncertain as it isn't clear whether he'll agree to work under Attal who was a junior minister in his own department. There is uncertainty over the position of Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna just as it is with Transport Minister Clement Beaune's. Attal will also have to find a replacement for the education ministry which he himself previously held. Also Read | Meet Gabriel Attal: New French PM is charismatic, openly gay and youngest ever to hold office at 34 Though Macron's decision to choose Attal as the PM signalled his intention to infuse young blood into his government, Attal's name wasn't finalised before some negotiations. AFP said that before finalising Attal, Macron had to overcome opposition from some cabinet ministers and also key powerbrokers in French politics. These included ex-premier Edouard Philippe and Alexis Kohler, presidential chief of staff. Reports in French media also said that there was some dispute before Macron zeroed in on Attal's name. Some reports have suggested that Attal will be overpowered by Macron, a seasoned hand in the presidential office by now. In the French political system, the president is responsible for setting general policies while the job of running day-to-day government affairs falls on the shoulders of the prime minister. It is hence, the PM who may get more flak in case of any political or administrative turbulence. It was seen an imperative for Macron to reshuffle his cabinet to prevent projecting an image of himself as a 'lame duck' leader. His centrist government has lost the parliamentary majority after 2022 elections. Macron will not be able to contest 2027 presidential elections, a fact which is seen by many to be Marine Le Pen's best chance to become president. (With inputs from agencies)

France’s new PM Gabriel Attal starts working towards cabinet reshuffle

French President Emmanuel Macron has named Gabriel Attal (34) as the new Prime Minister of the country. Attal will be the youngest French prime minister ever and the first openly gay person to hold the office.&nbsp;Attal will succeed former PM Elisabeth Borne who resigned yesterday.

"The president of the republic appointed Mr Gabriel Attal prime minister, and tasked him with forming a government," a statement from Macron's office read.

In the French system of governance, the president formulates policies while the work of minding day-to-day function of the government falls on the shoulders of the PM, and he/ she is often the first one to face the flak in case of governance issues.

Watch | France: President Macron aims to relaunch his government

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Former PM Elisabeth Borne (62)&nbsp;stepped down from her post on Monday after serving less than two years. Attal's selection as the new PM may be the start of a larger cabinet reshuffle which Macron is planning to carry out as he prepares for last three years of his presidency.

There were several candidates in race for the post of PM, but Attal was widely considered to be the favourite.

Wishes for Attal started trickling&nbsp;in soon after his appointment.

"I am sure that you will be able to faithfully carry out our project and embody the values that are ours," said Sylvain Maillard, the leader of Macron's Renaissance party in parliament.

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Toutes mes félicitations <a href="https://twitter.com/GabrielAttal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GabrielAttal</a>. 
 
Je suis sûr que tu sauras porter fidèlement notre projet et incarner les valeurs qui sont les nôtres. 
 
Les <a href="https://twitter.com/DeputesRE?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@deputesRE</a> seront des alliés loyaux et exigeants pour répondre aux défis de notre pays et continuer à réformer, pour les Français. <a href="https://t.co/AQZ5ZYAu8p">pic.twitter.com/AQZ5ZYAu8p</a>
— Sylvain Maillard (@SylvainMaillard) <a href="https://twitter.com/SylvainMaillard/status/1744680024320389313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Attal became a popular figure in the French government after he assumed politically crucial education ministry.

Analysts have in the past, been quoted in various media reports as saying that Macron needed to reshuffle his cabinet in order to prevent a 'lame duck' perception of his last three years in office.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/frances-le-figaro-highlights-security-stability-and-tourism-resurgence-in-kashmir-677151">France's Le Figaro highlights security, stability, and tourism resurgence in Kashmir</a>

Presidential elections in France are due in the year 2027. While Macron can't contest again, he would be looked at by his party for it to remain popular so that political prospects of right-wing Marine Le Pen are diminished.

The much closer political test for Macron and his Renaissance party is the European Parliament election slated to happen in June. The performance of his party may shift political perceptions among the public.

Attal will be the fourth prime minister under Macron since 2017. The French president is often criticised for what analysts say is micro-managing and centralisation of power in his hands.

(With inputs from agencies)

French President Emmanuel Macron has named Gabriel Attal (34) as the new Prime Minister of the country. Attal will be the youngest French prime minister ever and the first openly gay person to hold the office.

French President Emmanuel Macron has named Gabriel Attal (34) as the new Prime Minister of the country. Attal will be the youngest French prime minister ever and the first openly gay person to hold the office. Attal will succeed former PM Elisabeth Borne who resigned yesterday. "The president of the republic appointed Mr Gabriel Attal prime minister, and tasked him with forming a government," a statement from Macron's office read. In the French system of governance, the president formulates policies while the work of minding day-to-day function of the government falls on the shoulders of the PM, and he/ she is often the first one to face the flak in case of governance issues. Watch | France: President Macron aims to relaunch his government × Former PM Elisabeth Borne (62) stepped down from her post on Monday after serving less than two years. Attal's selection as the new PM may be the start of a larger cabinet reshuffle which Macron is planning to carry out as he prepares for last three years of his presidency. There were several candidates in race for the post of PM, but Attal was widely considered to be the favourite. Wishes for Attal started trickling in soon after his appointment. "I am sure that you will be able to faithfully carry out our project and embody the values that are ours," said Sylvain Maillard, the leader of Macron's Renaissance party in parliament. Toutes mes félicitations @GabrielAttal. Je suis sûr que tu sauras porter fidèlement notre projet et incarner les valeurs qui sont les nôtres. Les @deputesRE seront des alliés loyaux et exigeants pour répondre aux défis de notre pays et continuer à réformer, pour les Français. pic.twitter.com/AQZ5ZYAu8p — Sylvain Maillard (@SylvainMaillard) January 9, 2024 × Attal became a popular figure in the French government after he assumed politically crucial education ministry. Analysts have in the past, been quoted in various media reports as saying that Macron needed to reshuffle his cabinet in order to prevent a 'lame duck' perception of his last three years in office. Also Read | France's Le Figaro highlights security, stability, and tourism resurgence in Kashmir Presidential elections in France are due in the year 2027. While Macron can't contest again, he would be looked at by his party for it to remain popular so that political prospects of right-wing Marine Le Pen are diminished. The much closer political test for Macron and his Renaissance party is the European Parliament election slated to happen in June. The performance of his party may shift political perceptions among the public. Attal will be the fourth prime minister under Macron since 2017. The French president is often criticised for what analysts say is micro-managing and centralisation of power in his hands. (With inputs from agencies)

Gabriel Attal becomes youngest-ever, first openly gay French prime minister

French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne resigned on Monday, as President Emmanuel Macron seeks to give a new impetus to his second mandate ahead of European parliament elections and the Paris Olympics this summer.

French PM Elisabeth Borne resigns, President Emmanuel Macron to name new PM

French prime minister Elisabeth Borne is suing her biography publisher for outing her personal details. Is it okay to infringe the privacy of women politicians? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: French PM Elisabeth Borne sues autobiography publisher

French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed Labour minister Elisabeth Borne as the new Prime Minister ahead of the parliamentary elections. Borne has become only the second woman to hold the post in the country after Edith Cresson

Elisabeth Borne succeeds Castex as French Prime Minister

In France, Jean Castex takes over as new Prime Minister amid COVID-19 crisis. Jean Castex has replaced Edouard Philippe as French Prime Minister.

France: Jean Castex takes over as new Prime Minister amid COVID-19 crisis, replaces Edouard Philippe

The French government sacked the top police official in Paris on Monday following another weekend of rioting in the capital during "yellow vest" protests which have put President Emmanuel Macron on the defensive.

The police's failure to keep the Paris protests from spiralling out of control over the weekend again cast a harsh spotlight on their tactics.

About 5,000 police were deployed in the capital on Saturday, far outnumbering the several hundred black-clad rioters who caused havoc in front of groups of often passive policemen for more than seven hours on the famed Champs-Elysees.

Business owners were left fuming Monday, as Macron cut short his skiing holiday to meet top ministers to discuss the 18th consecutive Saturday of "yellow vest" demonstrations.

"The events of last Saturday, in particular on the Champs-Elysees, were unacceptable and the president asked the government to provide a response that was up to the needs of the situation," Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said in a televised statement.

After criticising "inappropriate" instructions on the use of rubber bullets given to security forces, he announced that the head of Paris police, 66-year-old Michel Delpuech, had been fired and would be replaced on Wednesday.

He said French authorities would ban rallies on the Champs-Elysees and elsewhere if hooligans were detected there, adding that fines would be increased from 38 to 135 euros for people attending unauthorised protests.

While the public's safety remains a priority, "the outburst of violence justifies a firm (police) response," Philippe told France 2 television on Monday evening.

Numbers down 
More than 100 businesses were damaged at the weekend in Paris including dozens of luxury shops and restaurants on the Champs-Elysees.

Since the end of December, the number of "yellow vest" protesters has fallen, but each Saturday thousands still take to the streets, including far-right and far-left groups as well as anarchists who are responsible for much of the violence.

A hard core of protesters have already vowed to cause havoc again next Saturday.

"Every Sunday large cities across France wake up to the same old story: smouldering barricades and a strident declaration from Christophe Castaner," leftwing daily Liberation wrote Monday.

Some have called for French police to be far more active in tackling troublemakers.

"You have to take responsibility and engage, with the possibility that people will get hurt," said Frederic Lagache of the Alliance police union on Monday.

For decades, French authorities have usually preferred the opposite, controlling mass protests with tear gas and rubber bullets while avoiding physical confrontation between police and large groups, experts say.

Although some protesters have been injured by the rubber bullets, so far nobody has been killed in clashes with police, but officials say the risk would increase if officers charged the hostile crowds.&nbsp;

"They would rather see a building damaged, with insurance companies footing the bill, than risk direct contact between police and demonstrators that might cause serious injuries or death," said Olivier Cahn at France's Cesdip law enforcement research institute.

'Less reactive' 
But critics say the government needs to drastically rethink its approach for stamping out the rioting.

"There are techniques and strategies for separating violent demonstrators from the others," Cahn said.

"Germany has strategies for de-escalating the tensions and separating protesters that are quite effective."

Junior Interior Minister Laurent Nunez admitted on RTL radio on Monday that police "were less aggressive, less reactive than usual" over the weekend, promising a review of the instructions given to officers and their deployment.

Castaner, a long-time ally of Macron who had no law-and-order experience before becoming interior minister in October, is also facing renewed scrutiny of his record amid calls for his resignation from some in the opposition Republicans party.

While seen as too lax on Saturday, French authorities have been accused on other weekends of being too heavy-handed, highlighting the government's difficulty of managing the crisis.

The UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet called for a "full investigation" into the possible use of excessive force by French police during the protests in an address on March 6.&nbsp;

Since the demonstrations began on November 17, some 1,900 people have been hurt, including dozens who have suffered serious injuries from stun grenades or rubber bullets fired by police.

Rights groups have tried to have the heavy rubber bullets used by the French police banned, noting that France is one of only a handful of Western countries to use them.

The French government sacked the top police official in Paris on Monday following another weekend of rioting in the capital during "yellow vest" protests which have put President Emmanuel Macron on the defensive.

The French government sacked the top police official in Paris on Monday following another weekend of rioting in the capital during "yellow vest" protests which have put President Emmanuel Macron on the defensive. The police's failure to keep the Paris protests from spiralling out of control over the weekend again cast a harsh spotlight on their tactics. About 5,000 police were deployed in the capital on Saturday, far outnumbering the several hundred black-clad rioters who caused havoc in front of groups of often passive policemen for more than seven hours on the famed Champs-Elysees. Business owners were left fuming Monday, as Macron cut short his skiing holiday to meet top ministers to discuss the 18th consecutive Saturday of "yellow vest" demonstrations. "The events of last Saturday, in particular on the Champs-Elysees, were unacceptable and the president asked the government to provide a response that was up to the needs of the situation," Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said in a televised statement. After criticising "inappropriate" instructions on the use of rubber bullets given to security forces, he announced that the head of Paris police, 66-year-old Michel Delpuech, had been fired and would be replaced on Wednesday. He said French authorities would ban rallies on the Champs-Elysees and elsewhere if hooligans were detected there, adding that fines would be increased from 38 to 135 euros for people attending unauthorised protests. While the public's safety remains a priority, "the outburst of violence justifies a firm (police) response," Philippe told France 2 television on Monday evening. Numbers down More than 100 businesses were damaged at the weekend in Paris including dozens of luxury shops and restaurants on the Champs-Elysees. Since the end of December, the number of "yellow vest" protesters has fallen, but each Saturday thousands still take to the streets, including far-right and far-left groups as well as anarchists who are responsible for much of the violence. A hard core of protesters have already vowed to cause havoc again next Saturday. "Every Sunday large cities across France wake up to the same old story: smouldering barricades and a strident declaration from Christophe Castaner," leftwing daily Liberation wrote Monday. Some have called for French police to be far more active in tackling troublemakers. "You have to take responsibility and engage, with the possibility that people will get hurt," said Frederic Lagache of the Alliance police union on Monday. For decades, French authorities have usually preferred the opposite, controlling mass protests with tear gas and rubber bullets while avoiding physical confrontation between police and large groups, experts say. Although some protesters have been injured by the rubber bullets, so far nobody has been killed in clashes with police, but officials say the risk would increase if officers charged the hostile crowds. "They would rather see a building damaged, with insurance companies footing the bill, than risk direct contact between police and demonstrators that might cause serious injuries or death," said Olivier Cahn at France's Cesdip law enforcement research institute. 'Less reactive' But critics say the government needs to drastically rethink its approach for stamping out the rioting. "There are techniques and strategies for separating violent demonstrators from the others," Cahn said. "Germany has strategies for de-escalating the tensions and separating protesters that are quite effective." Junior Interior Minister Laurent Nunez admitted on RTL radio on Monday that police "were less aggressive, less reactive than usual" over the weekend, promising a review of the instructions given to officers and their deployment. Castaner, a long-time ally of Macron who had no law-and-order experience before becoming interior minister in October, is also facing renewed scrutiny of his record amid calls for his resignation from some in the opposition Republicans party. While seen as too lax on Saturday, French authorities have been accused on other weekends of being too heavy-handed, highlighting the government's difficulty of managing the crisis. The UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet called for a "full investigation" into the possible use of excessive force by French police during the protests in an address on March 6. Since the demonstrations began on November 17, some 1,900 people have been hurt, including dozens who have suffered serious injuries from stun grenades or rubber bullets fired by police. Rights groups have tried to have the heavy rubber bullets used by the French police banned, noting that France is one of only a handful of Western countries to use them.

Paris police chief sacked after Champs-Elysees rioting

French PM Edouard Philippe to announce fuel tax suspension

Newly inaugurated French President Emmanuel Macron appointed a conservative prime minister on Monday in a move to broaden his political appeal and weaken his opponents before parliamentary elections in June.

Edouard Philippe, 46, a lawmaker and mayor of the port city of Le Havre, is from the moderate wing of the main centre-right party, The Republicans, and will provide a counterweight to former Socialist members of parliament who have joined Macron&#39;s cause.

Macron wants to smash the left-right divide which has dominated France for decades, and his start-up centrist Republic on the Move (REM) party, which is just a year old, needs to forge a wide base of support.

Success in the parliamentary elections is vital to his chances of pushing through his plans to cut state spending, boost investment and create jobs, after years of economic malaise and high unemployment.

The choice of Philippe is aimed at drawing more defectors from The Republicans, in the same way as Macron&#39;s decision not to put up an REM candidate in Manuel Valls&#39; constituency pulls the Socialist former prime minister closer, and makes it hard for a divided left to re-unite.

It is the first time in modern French political history that a president has appointed a prime minister from outside his camp without being forced to by a defeat in parliamentary elections.

Appearing at a handover ceremony with outgoing Socialist prime minister Bernard Cazeneuve, who is also from Normandy, Philippe joked that Normans were &quot;aggressively moderate&quot; as well as &quot;conquerors.&quot;

He also described himself as &quot;a man of the right.&quot;

Philippe is &quot;a prime minister who will bring everyone together around a progressive, daring, unifying programme,&quot; said Gerard Collomb, the Socialist mayor of Lyon and one of the earliest backers of Macron.

By appointing him, Macron has passed over some loyal followers including Richard Ferrand, a former Socialist who was one of the first to join Macron&#39;s cause last year and is secretary general of REM.

Christophe Castaner, Macron&#39;s campaign spokesman, said on Sunday this was the kind of tough choice that would have to be made in Macron&#39;s inner circle now that the battle for the presidential Elysee Palace was won.

The rest of the government is expected to be announced on Tuesday afternoon.

&quot;Individual&nbsp;Decision&quot;

Philippe&#39;s nomination is a direct challenge to The Republicans (LR), who say they aim to be the biggest party in the lower house of parliament but are lagging behind REM in the first opinion polls ahead of that ballot.

Members of the party had very different reactions to Philippe&#39;s nomination, with loyalists criticising it.

&quot;This is not at all a government coalition but an individual decision. We regret it,&quot; LR said in a statement. &quot;He has placed himself outside of our political family,&quot; LR secretary general Bernard Accoyer said.

Philippe is a close associate of former prime minister Alain Juppe, who leads LR&#39;s moderate wing, and his mentor was more positive. Juppe welcomed the move, wishing him good luck and telling reporters Philippe has &quot;all the qualities needed for this difficult job.&quot;

Juppe said he would be backing LR lawmakers in the mid-June elections, and not Macron&#39;s candidates. But he added that if LR and its allies did not win a majority in June, voters &quot;would not understand if we systematically opposed everything.&quot;

Bruno Le Maire&rlm;, a veteran LR lawmaker who has also been pushing for a rapprochement with Macron, congratulated Philippe on Twitter, saying: &quot;Let&#39;s go beyond the old divides to be of use to France and the French people.&quot;

Philippe began his political life as a Socialist activist affiliated to former prime minister Michel Rocard while he was a student, before turning to the right.

A trained lawyer, he worked as public affairs director for the state nuclear group Areva between 2007 and 2010, before becoming a member of parliament in 2012, and then mayor of Le Havre in 2014.

Last year he was part of Juppe&#39;s unsuccessful campaign team in The Republicans&#39; primaries, and then joined the presidential campaign of Francois Fillon, the party&#39;s nominee. Philippe quit that cause when Fillon&#39;s campaign was hit by a financial scandal over publicly funded jobs for members of his family.

Philippe, like Macron, attended the elite ENA school, and his political hero is Rocard - another point in common with the 39-year-old new president.

In a May 3 column for left-leaning daily Liberation, Philippe said of Macron: &quot;He&#39;ll have to be daring. Step out of the old, comfortable, institutionalised, one-on-one left-right opposition to constitute a majority of a new kind. The path will be narrow. And risky.&quot;

He might be less at ease now with a more critical column he wrote mid-January, in which he said Macron was no John Fitzgerald Kennedy, adding that he didn&#39;t have JFK&#39;s charisma.

(Reuters)

Macron appointed a conservative prime minister in a move to broaden his political appeal and weaken his opponents before parliamentary elections in June

Newly inaugurated French President Emmanuel Macron appointed a conservative prime minister on Monday in a move to broaden his political appeal and weaken his opponents before parliamentary elections in June. Edouard Philippe, 46, a lawmaker and mayor of the port city of Le Havre, is from the moderate wing of the main centre-right party, The Republicans, and will provide a counterweight to former Socialist members of parliament who have joined Macron's cause. Macron wants to smash the left-right divide which has dominated France for decades, and his start-up centrist Republic on the Move (REM) party, which is just a year old, needs to forge a wide base of support. Success in the parliamentary elections is vital to his chances of pushing through his plans to cut state spending, boost investment and create jobs, after years of economic malaise and high unemployment. The choice of Philippe is aimed at drawing more defectors from The Republicans, in the same way as Macron's decision not to put up an REM candidate in Manuel Valls' constituency pulls the Socialist former prime minister closer, and makes it hard for a divided left to re-unite. It is the first time in modern French political history that a president has appointed a prime minister from outside his camp without being forced to by a defeat in parliamentary elections. Appearing at a handover ceremony with outgoing Socialist prime minister Bernard Cazeneuve, who is also from Normandy, Philippe joked that Normans were "aggressively moderate" as well as "conquerors." He also described himself as "a man of the right." Philippe is "a prime minister who will bring everyone together around a progressive, daring, unifying programme," said Gerard Collomb, the Socialist mayor of Lyon and one of the earliest backers of Macron. By appointing him, Macron has passed over some loyal followers including Richard Ferrand, a former Socialist who was one of the first to join Macron's cause last year and is secretary general of REM. Christophe Castaner, Macron's campaign spokesman, said on Sunday this was the kind of tough choice that would have to be made in Macron's inner circle now that the battle for the presidential Elysee Palace was won. The rest of the government is expected to be announced on Tuesday afternoon. "Individual Decision" Philippe's nomination is a direct challenge to The Republicans (LR), who say they aim to be the biggest party in the lower house of parliament but are lagging behind REM in the first opinion polls ahead of that ballot. Members of the party had very different reactions to Philippe's nomination, with loyalists criticising it. "This is not at all a government coalition but an individual decision. We regret it," LR said in a statement. "He has placed himself outside of our political family," LR secretary general Bernard Accoyer said. Philippe is a close associate of former prime minister Alain Juppe, who leads LR's moderate wing, and his mentor was more positive. Juppe welcomed the move, wishing him good luck and telling reporters Philippe has "all the qualities needed for this difficult job." Juppe said he would be backing LR lawmakers in the mid-June elections, and not Macron's candidates. But he added that if LR and its allies did not win a majority in June, voters "would not understand if we systematically opposed everything." Bruno Le Maire‏, a veteran LR lawmaker who has also been pushing for a rapprochement with Macron, congratulated Philippe on Twitter, saying: "Let's go beyond the old divides to be of use to France and the French people." Philippe began his political life as a Socialist activist affiliated to former prime minister Michel Rocard while he was a student, before turning to the right. A trained lawyer, he worked as public affairs director for the state nuclear group Areva between 2007 and 2010, before becoming a member of parliament in 2012, and then mayor of Le Havre in 2014. Last year he was part of Juppe's unsuccessful campaign team in The Republicans' primaries, and then joined the presidential campaign of Francois Fillon, the party's nominee. Philippe quit that cause when Fillon's campaign was hit by a financial scandal over publicly funded jobs for members of his family. Philippe, like Macron, attended the elite ENA school, and his political hero is Rocard - another point in common with the 39-year-old new president. In a May 3 column for left-leaning daily Liberation, Philippe said of Macron: "He'll have to be daring. Step out of the old, comfortable, institutionalised, one-on-one left-right opposition to constitute a majority of a new kind. The path will be narrow. And risky." He might be less at ease now with a more critical column he wrote mid-January, in which he said Macron was no John Fitzgerald Kennedy, adding that he didn't have JFK's charisma. (Reuters)

France's Macron appoints Edouard Philippe as new prime minister

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