François Hollande Endorses 49.3 as Sole Democratic Means to Pass 2026 Budget Amid Parliamentary Deadlock

Former French President François Hollande has declared that invoking Article 49.3 of the Constitution is the only democratic procedure available to adopt the 2026 national budget. Speaking on January 11, 2026, Hollande underscored that the fractured National Assembly lacks a majority to approve the budget through normal parliamentary voting, with opposition parties unable to form an alternative government or provide support to the current administration.

Hollande acknowledged previous assurances given by government minister Sébastien Lecornu against using the 49.3 procedure but lamented the lack of backing from various political factions including Socialists, Ecologists, Communists, La France Insoumise, and the National Rally. He cautioned the government to apply the procedure cautiously to avoid motions of censure, suggesting that a compromise with the Socialists could be key to maintaining stability.

Looking beyond the budget crisis, Hollande reflected on the political landscape ahead of the 2027 presidential election, emphasizing the need for a strong center-left political force to counter the surge of far-right movements in France and Europe. He affirmed he does not seek personal candidacy, focusing instead on securing France's political stability and progress.

Hollande's stance highlights the ongoing political impasse in the National Assembly and the challenges facing the French government in pushing through crucial fiscal legislation in a fragmented parliament environment.