Sébastien Lecornu Resigns as French Prime Minister Amid Political Deadlock and Instability

Sébastien Lecornu resigned as Prime Minister of France on October 6, 2025, after only 14 hours in office—the shortest government in French history. His abrupt departure follows intense political deadlock, underscoring deep divisions within the French government coalition. Lecornu cited three main reasons for his resignation: the failure to utilize article 49.3 of the Constitution, which removed a key mechanism for legislative control; the behavior of political parties acting as if each held an absolute majority demanding full adherence to their programs; and the rigidity in government composition leading to resurfaced partisan interests tied to the upcoming presidential election. He urged political parties to adopt a more collaborative approach, prioritizing humility, national interest, and willingness to compromise to prevent further instability (ID 89713).

President Emmanuel Macron has tasked Lecornu with leading negotiations to stabilize the government before a critical deadline on Wednesday. However, efforts to reconcile the coalition have been hindered. Bruno Retailleau, leader of Les Républicains (LR) and Interior Minister, refused to attend a key meeting, opting instead for a private discussion with Lecornu. Retailleau criticized the lack of trust in the government, particularly concerning appointments such as Bruno Le Maire as Minister of the Armed Forces, and highlighted the burden of public debt as a key issue. While Retailleau acknowledged the national majority's existence, he emphasized the need for a clear political direction and warned of possible elections should the deadlock persist (IDs 89709, 89719).

Meanwhile, the Socialist Party (PS) refuses to engage with La France Insoumise (LFI) due to disagreements over crisis solutions. PS first secretary Olivier Faure called for significant changes under Macron's leadership to better reflect citizens' demands. On the far right, Marine Le Pen has demanded either Macron's resignation or dissolution of the National Assembly, signaling escalating political tensions (ID 89709).

This political turmoil has also rattled the financial markets, with a notable drop in the Paris stock exchange, illustrating widespread concerns about France's governmental stability. The complex crisis stems from longstanding institutional dysfunctions and the strategic calculations ahead of the 2027 presidential elections, which heavily influence party maneuvers and government composition (ID 89715).

Lecornu conveyed a message of cautious optimism, suggesting that political actors need "very little" to make governance work if they abandon rigid party postures and listen to their constituents. The path forward hinges on parties' ability to prioritize France’s general interest over partisan ambitions as the country braces for prolonged political uncertainty.