France

Paris – France has been plunged into fresh political chaos after lawmakers voted to remove Prime Minister François Bayrou from office, dealing another blow to President Emmanuel Macron’s struggling administration.

Bayrou, who had only been in power since January, called a surprise vote of confidence in himself in an attempt to force through his contested budget plans. The gamble backfired as opposition parties from across the spectrum united to defeat him.

The rejected budget proposal, which included deep spending cuts and controversial measures to reduce France’s mounting debt, sparked anger among unions, business leaders, and the public. With Bayrou forced to resign, France is once again without a government at a time of mounting social unrest and economic strain.

President Macron now faces a difficult choice:

• Appoint a new prime minister — which would mark the fifth in less than two years, highlighting the instability at the heart of his presidency.

• Call a snap election — a move that could backfire badly, given voter disillusionment and the rising popularity of both far-right and far-left parties.

Political analysts warn that either path carries risks. A new appointment may not command a majority in parliament, while early elections could drastically weaken Macron’s already fragile position.

Public frustration is growing, with strikes and demonstrations expected in the coming weeks. Protest movements are calling for “a reset” of French politics, while businesses warn of economic fallout if the deadlock drags on.

For now, France is left waiting for the Élysée’s next move — one that could determine whether the country finds stability, or plunges even deeper into political crisis.