French President Emmanuel Macron appointed former Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu as prime minister after François Bayrou’s government collapsed in a failed confidence vote. Lecornu took office at a ceremony in Matignon, pledging humility and promising talks with parties and unions to address France’s political and social crisis.
Bayrou, who lost parliament’s support with 364 votes against his government, wished Lecornu success and called for unity. Nationwide protests continue to shape the backdrop of France’s new political chapter.