Paris, October 11(HS): French President Emmanuel Macron has reappointed Sebastien Lecornu as France’s Prime Minister, just four days after Lecornu resigned amid mounting political deadlock over the nation’s austerity budget. Macron’s decision comes as France grapples with a hung parliament and intensifying calls for fiscal reform, following last year's snap elections that largely benefited the far-right National Rally party.party

In a statement from the Elysee Palace, President Macron tasked Lecornu, 39, with forming a new government and resolving the protracted budget crisis. Lecornu, previously France's Defence Minister and a loyal Macron ally, expressed his acceptance of the role “out of duty” and pledged to restore public finances and help deliver a budget by year-end.

Opposition leaders have sharply criticized the move, calling for immediate action to oust Lecornu’s administration if he refuses to suspend controversial pension reforms that raised the retirement age from 62 to 64.

Jordan Bardella, head of the National Rally, dismissed Lecornu’s return as a “bad joke,” while left-wing spokesmen described it as “two fingers to the French people”.Lecornu's reappointment follows the toppling of two previous prime ministers by parliament during disputes over cost-cutting measures.

Meanwhile, President Macron faces unprecedented domestic unrest, with former Premier Edouard Philippe urging him to consider resignation once a budget is approved. Macron remains steadfast, insisting he will serve until the end of his second term.With the far-right National Rally gearing up for the 2027 presidential elections—potentially fielding Jordan Bardella as Marine Le Pen is barred from standing due to a corruption conviction—France’s path ahead remains uncertain.

Lecornu warned prospective ministers that joining his cabinet requires “setting aside presidential ambitions” until 2027, and hinted at including technocrats in the new government lineup.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar