In a surprising twist, French President Emmanuel Macron has rejected Prime Minister Gabriel Attal's resignation after a chaotic election that left the country's government in limbo. The election results saw a split in the legislature between the left, the center and the extreme right, with no faction securing the majority needed to form a government. This political deadlock has raised concerns about the potential paralysis of the European Union's second-largest economy.
Macron's decision to call early elections was intended to bring clarity to France, especially ahead of the Paris Olympics. However, the result has created uncertainty. Despite the initial shock, the French stock market recovered quickly, possibly due to fears of an outright victory for the far-right or the left-wing coalition.
Prime Minister Attal, who was appointed by Macron just seven months ago, tendered his resignation on Monday but was asked to stay on to ensure the country's stability. Attal had previously expressed his disagreement with Macron's decision to call a snap election.
The election results have not left a clear path to form a government for the leftist coalition that came first, Macron's centrist alliance or the far right. The newly elected and returning lawmakers are expected to begin serious negotiations in the National Assembly.
The political deadlock could have far-reaching implications for global diplomacy, the war in Ukraine and Europe's economic stability. However, some leaders have expressed relief at the results. Official results showed the three main blocs were far short of the 289 seats needed to control the 577-seat National Assembly, France's most powerful legislative chamber.
The left-wing coalition of the New Popular Front, which took first place, immediately pushed Macron to give them the first chance to form a government and nominate a prime minister. However, it remains unclear who among the left could lead the government without alienating crucial allies.
Macron, who has three years left in his presidential term, has warned that the left-wing economic program could be ruinous for France, which is already under EU scrutiny over its debt. The uncertainty of a hung parliament is uncharted territory for modern France, and many people have reacted with a mixture of relief and apprehension.
The election has been marred by racism and anti-Semitism, Russian disinformation campaigns and physical attacks on more than 50 candidates. Despite these challenges, many voters prioritized keeping the far right in power, even if that meant supporting candidates from political camps they don't usually support.
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