Political Instability Marks Launch of Lecornu II Government Amid Opposition Censure Threats

On October 13, 2025, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu officially launched his second government, marked by a blend of political figures and technocrats facing immediate political instability. The new cabinet of 34 ministers is tasked with passing the 2026 budget while under pressure from left and right-wing opposition parties threatening a motion of censure. President Emmanuel Macron, speaking from Egypt, strongly condemned political forces that fueled Lecornu's destabilization, urging all parties to work toward "calm, stability, and demand." Macron criticized those "who have nourished division," emphasizing the necessity of political stability for France's progress.

Opposition remains fierce. Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of La France Insoumise (LFI), declared that the government is a "comedy" unable to respond to national needs and insisted that Macron's removal is the only solution. Mélenchon announced plans to file a motion of censure supported by communists and ecologists. Meanwhile, Jordan Bardella of the National Rally accused the Socialist Party of colluding with the government to evade censure, promising RN support for all motions of no confidence. The far-left and far-right factions thus pose significant legislative challenges.

The newly formed government includes eight ministers from civil society and 26 politicians, with six former members of Les Républicains excluded from the party following their appointments. Notable appointments such as Monique Barbut as Minister of Ecological Transition and Jean-Pierre Farandou as Minister of Labour signal an attempt at fresh approaches. Lecornu has called for discreet and sober power transitions, limiting media presence. The cabinet will hold its first Council of Ministers meeting Tuesday morning, aiming for a prompt budget presentation that can withstand opposition scrutiny.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez expressed gratitude to the Paris police force, underlining internal solidarity during politically tense times. Macron's call for unity contrasts sharply with the charged atmosphere as multiple parties prepare legislative actions against the government. This political impasse underscores the difficult path ahead for Lecornu’s administration in stabilizing governance and advancing its agenda.