Edited by Deepali Verma
French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne resigned on January 8 post the recent political turmoil over a new immigration law, paving the way for President Emmanuel Macron to seek new momentum by appointing a new government in the coming days.
The shakeup was widely anticipated as an attempt by the 46-year-old centrist Macron to head off a looming lame-duck status. Macron’s term comes to an end in 2027 and he won’t be eligible to run again for president owing to the French Constitution.
Borne’s resignation letter suggests that she resigned at Macron’s request, citing the president’s “will” to “appoint a new prime minister.”
The resignation of Borne followed the passage late last month of contentious immigration legislation backed by Macron that aimed at strengthening the government’s ability to deport some foreigners, among other measures.
Macron’s centrist alliance was able to pass the measure once they made a deal with the conservative Republicans party, which was seen by many observers as the government’s shift to the right. The extensive negotiations as well as the heated parliament debate raised questions over the ability of Borne’s government to pass future major bills.
Political observers suggested that Macron, who is a staunch supporter of European integration, focuses on his new government to prepare for June’s European Union elections.
Borne, 62, had been appointed in May 2022 once Macron’s reelection for a second term came through. She was France’s second female prime minister.
In the coming month, Macron’s centrists lost their majority in parliament which forced the government into political manoeuvring and to use the special constitutional powers to be able to pass laws.
Last year, Borne was exposed to mass protests often marred by violence against unpopular pension changes. The bill that seeked to increase the retirement age from 62 to 64 was enacted into law in April, which became the cause for angering many people across the country.
She was also subjected to days of riots which erupted across France at the start of the summer, triggered by the deadly police shooting of a teen.
Macron’s office announced his acceptance of Borne’s resignation in a statement, and the president posted on X, that Borne’s work “has been exemplary every day.” “You have implemented our project with statewomen’s courage, commitment and determination. Thank you from the bottom of my heart,” he wrote.
The statement released from Macron’s office informed that Borne will continue in her duties until a new government is appointed.
Under the French political system, the appointment of the prime minister is done by the president and is accountable to the parliament. The prime minister holds the charge of implementing domestic policy and coordinating with the government’s team of ministers.
The president has substantial powers over foreign policy, European affairs and defence. He also holds the designation of the commander-in-chief of the country’s armed forces.
