French Parliament Passes Motion of No Confidence Against Prime Minister Michel Barnier

In a dramatic turn of events, the French Parliament has approved a motion of no confidence against Prime Minister Michel Barnier, resulting in his removal from office just three months after his appointment. A total of 331 lawmakers voted in favor of the motion, with left-wing and far-right parties joining forces in opposition to the prime minister.

The crisis stemmed from Barnier’s decision to implement the national budget through special powers without seeking parliamentary approval, a move that is constitutionally required in France. This unilateral action sparked widespread protests within the legislature and led to the filing of the no-confidence motion.

Michel Barnier had been appointed as Prime Minister by President Emmanuel Macron only three months ago. His short tenure is now marked by one of the most significant political upheavals in recent French history. The last time a French government was ousted through a no-confidence vote was in 1962, highlighting the rarity and gravity of the situation.

Barnier’s dismissal underscores the intense political divisions in France and the challenges facing Macron’s administration as it navigates a period of considerable instability.