Challenges Ahead for New Paris Government

France Prepares for New Government Amid Political Turmoil

France is on the brink of announcing its new government, expected by Sunday, following a series of complicated negotiations. Premier Michel Barnier, a conservative former EU Commissioner, has presented a cabinet list to President Emmanuel Macron. Key appointments include Jean-Noël Barrot as Foreign Minister and Sébastien Lecornu maintaining his role as Defense Minister. Bruno Retailleau will take over as Interior Minister, succeeding Gérald Darmanin, who failed to secure the Foreign Minister post and will leave the government. Economic roles will be filled by Antoine Armand and Matthieu Lefèvre after Bruno Le Maire's voluntary departure. Notably, Laurent Wauquiez declined the position of Economy Minister, potentially due to his presidential ambitions and concerns about the government's stability. The proposed inclusion of conservative Senator Laurence Garnier has sparked controversy due to her stances on abortion and conversion therapy for homosexuals. Left-wing politicians have largely opted out of joining Barnier's cabinet, with Didier Migaud, head of the transparency agency, being a rare exception and a candidate for Justice Minister. The left-green alliance, Nouvelle Union Populaire, has refused collaboration, feeling sidelined by the conservative leadership. The protracted government formation highlights France's deep political divisions, with the National Assembly divided into three hostile blocs: the left, Macron's centrists, and Marine Le Pen's right-wing populists. Barnier is set to address the National Assembly in early October, marking the beginning of his tenure amidst significant challenges and expectations.