France's Political Standoff Continues as Prime Minister Seeks Cross-Party Support
France remains at a political stalemate as the outgoing prime minister, Sébastien Lecornu, makes a final attempt to gather support from rival parties for a new government.
President Emmanuel Macron assigned Lecornu, 39, to form a government in early September after his predecessor was ousted due to disagreements over a strict budget plan.
Lecornu presented a cabinet on Sunday, but criticism arose as it included several figures from the previous administration. By Monday morning, he had stepped down. However, in an unexpected turn, Lecornu later agreed to Macron’s request to spend two more days trying to save his government.
A statement from the president’s office, attributed to an unnamed official, said Lecornu had until Wednesday evening to secure an agreement on a plan for stability. If unsuccessful, Macron would "assume his responsibilities"—a possible hint at calling fresh elections.
According to Agence France-Presse, Lecornu began meetings with party leaders early Monday morning in hopes of breaking the deadlock.
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