France’s 1st the most young and gay premier, Gabriel Attal, 34, took the reins on Tuesday as President Emmanuel Macron sought to revamp his government following a year of protests and criticism from both the left and the right.
1. **France’s First Openly Gay Prime Minister Appointed Amid Cabinet Reshuffle**
President Macron appointed Gabriel Attal as the new prime minister tasked with forming a government, making him France’s first openly gay prime minister. The move is part of a broader cabinet reshuffle aimed at revitalizing Macron’s team for the remaining three years of his presidency.
2. **Political Turmoil Sparks Resignation of Predecessor Over Controversial Immigration Law**
Attal’s predecessor, Élisabeth Borne, resigned following political unrest surrounding a contentious immigration law criticized for making concessions to the far right. The law, which expanded the government’s deportation powers, led to Borne stepping down, setting the stage for the government overhaul.
3. **Macron Seeks Renewal Ahead of Key Events**
The government shake-up comes ahead of the Paris Olympic Games and European Parliament elections, where Macron’s centrist forces face challenges from the far-right led by Marine Le Pen. Macron expressed a desire for the new prime minister to bring back the bold spirit of change that characterized his initial term.
4. **New Prime Minister’s Priorities and Vision**
In his inaugural speech, Attal outlined three priorities: employment, economic openness, and youth focus. Borne, the second woman to serve as French prime minister, passed on her best wishes, emphasizing the importance of determination and energy. Macron, the youngest-ever French president, aims to work with Attal to name a new government, maintaining continuity in key ministerial roles.
5. **Challenges Ahead for Macron’s Centrist Presidency**
The reshuffle is seen as critical to relaunch Macron’s presidency, preventing him from becoming a “lame duck” leader after facing protests, parliamentary losses, and controversies. Le Figaro notes the fragility of the political situation, highlighting the successor’s challenge in addressing numerous political emergencies and uniting a fragmented nation.
By MediaBites
