French President Macron retains Prime Minister Borne after crisis

PARIS – French President Emmanuel Macron has decided to keep Elisabeth Borne as his prime minister, putting an end to weeks of speculation regarding a possible cabinet reshuffle in the wake of several crises that have shaken his government.

Borne’s tenure as the head of the French government has coincided with some of the most turbulent episodes in Macron’s second term as president.

The nation witnessed unrest triggered by a contested pension reform and rioting following the killing of a teenager of North African descent by a policeman.

In France’s political landscape, prime ministers typically serve for a limited time, with Macron already on his third prime minister since assuming power in 2017.

The replacement of a prime minister often signals a shift in the country’s political direction.

Speculation surrounding Borne‘s possible replacement had centred on Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, known for his focus on law and order and his handling of the riots that eventually subsided after a significant deployment of police forces.

However, the President has ultimately chosen to maintain the status quo.

An official from Macron’s entourage stated, “To ensure stability and in-depth work, the president has decided to keep the prime minister in place.”

Later this week, President Macron is expected to make an announcement to remind the country of his clear policy direction.

Borne confirmed that she would carry out a minor cabinet reshuffle this week.

Observers speculate that junior minister Marlene Schiappa, facing criticism for alleged mishandling of a public fund, and Education Minister Pap Ndiaye are likely to be replaced.

The appointment of labor law specialist Jean-Denis Combrexelle as Borne’s new chief of staff indicates her intention to engage in renewed dialogue with unions.

This follows months of standoffs over Borne’s push to increase the retirement age, a measure passed through parliament without a vote.

The Elysee official emphasized that calm has been restored, noting that concerns over potential violence during last week’s Bastille Day celebrations did not materialize, enabling the government to refocus on its policy agenda.

With Macron’s allies lacking an absolute majority in parliament, Borne’s retention may be a strategic move to garner support for the President’s policies.

One former government minister commented, “It is true that nobody else would be better at gathering a majority.”

Earlier this month, Borne outlined her policy proposals to President Macron, emphasizing labor issues, public order, climate change, health, and education.

As she continues in her role as prime minister, she remains focused on tackling the pressing challenges facing France.