The announcement of François Bayrou’s government has been postponed, raising doubts about its formation before Christmas. The Élysée Palace confirmed that no details will be released before Monday evening, coinciding with a national day of mourning for victims of Cyclone Chido in Mayotte. Bayrou aims to create a diverse coalition, but challenges remain in balancing political factions and gender representation. Limited participation from the left is evident, with the Socialist Party opting out.
Government Announcement Postponed
The highly anticipated announcement regarding the presentation of François Bayrou’s government, initially scheduled for Sunday evening, has been delayed. This postponement raises concerns about the likelihood of a government formation before Christmas, a timeline set by the Prime Minister.
The Élysée Palace has confirmed that no announcements will be made before 6:00 PM on Monday, but it remains unclear if the details of the government will be revealed at that time.
Additionally, President Emmanuel Macron has declared Monday a national day of mourning for Mayotte, which has been severely impacted by Cyclone Chido.
A minute of silence will be observed nationwide at 11:00 AM to honor the victims of this tragedy, which has resulted in a provisional death toll of 35 and around 2,500 injured.
Estelle Youssouffa, a deputy from Mayotte, expressed her deep frustration on Monday, criticizing the government’s lack of action while her constituents struggle without water and assistance. “It’s so disrespectful, so serious, so mediocre, that we no longer have the words,” she stated on France Inter.
If further delays occur, the government composition may only be disclosed on Tuesday, December 24, coinciding with Christmas Eve and the start of the holiday season.
The political landscape has become accustomed to navigating the uncertainties surrounding executive schedules, from Prime Minister appointments to cabinet reshuffles.
“This prolonged delay, in light of the pressing issues our country faces, is simply unbearable,” criticized RN deputy Jean-Philippe Tanguy during his appearance on BFMTV-RMC, denouncing the repetitive nature of the situation.
Building a Strong Government Coalition
At 73, the centrist leader François Bayrou aims to establish a robust government that can withstand scrutiny, incorporating figures from various political backgrounds, including the right, center, and left.
On Sunday, Bayrou’s team indicated that he was finalizing the details of his government. Throughout the day, he engaged in multiple phone conversations with Emmanuel Macron, culminating in an evening meeting at the Élysée.
“The progress is encouraging. The key ministerial positions are taking shape,” stated Marc Fesneau, president of the MoDem deputies and a close ally of Bayrou, confirming that the complete list of government members is expected to be unveiled “all at once” and “before Christmas.”
However, forming a government requires careful balancing of political factions, gender representation, and individual sensitivities. Newly appointed ministers will urgently need to prepare a budget for 2025, facing pressure from both the opposition and financial markets.
Potential candidates for Bayrou’s cabinet include former Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne and ex-Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, alongside Xavier Bertrand, the president of Hauts-de-France and a prominent figure within the right-wing party Les Républicains (LR).
Bertrand’s potential appointment as Justice Minister has raised concerns among the National Rally, given his long-standing opposition to the party, especially as Marine Le Pen awaits a ruling that could affect her eligibility amid ongoing legal issues.
“This sends a negative message,” remarked Jean-Philippe Tanguy, reiterating that Bertrand’s inclusion would not immediately trigger censure from the far-right party.
Gérald Darmanin, a former LR member who has aligned with Macron’s government, has expressed interest in the Quai d’Orsay, despite the current Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Noël Barrot’s desire to retain his position.
Limited Representation from the Left
On the left side of the political spectrum, former socialist minister François Rebsamen, age 73, has indicated his willingness to join the government, citing a “long-standing relationship of trust” with Bayrou.
However, there is minimal information regarding other left-leaning figures who might consider joining Bayrou’s coalition.
The Socialist Party has officially declined to participate, with its leader Olivier Faure expressing disappointment over the “poverty of proposals” and suggesting that a motion of censure against the new Prime Minister remains a possibility.
Among existing members, Catherine Vautrin (Territories), Rachida Dati (Culture), and Sébastien Lecornu (Armed Forces) are likely to remain in their current roles.
Laurent Wauquiez, leader of the Les Républicains deputies, has indicated to his party that he is leaning towards supporting government participation, contingent upon receiving formal commitments from the Prime Minister regarding the roadmap and budget. However, he clarified that he would not join Bayrou’s team, despite aspirations for the Finance portfolio.
Conversely, outgoing Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau appears poised to stay on.
Ultimately, Bayrou’s government base is expected to align closely with that of Michel Barnier from the LR, who was ousted on December 4 following a motion of censure after just three months in office.