Macron Taps Defense Minister Lecornu as New Prime Minister Amid Ongoing Crisis

French President Emmanuel Macron Names Sebastien Lecornu as Prime Minister Amid Ongoing Political Crisis PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed Sebastien Lecornu, his defense minister and close ally, as the new prime minister following the resignation of Francois Bayrou after losing a confidence vote in the National Assembly on Monday. Lecornu, 39, is set to take over as prime minister on Wednesday, marking the fifth change in less than two years. The incoming prime minister faces significant challenges, including resolving a deepening political crisis and addressing the country's debt crisis. In a statement, Lecornu said: "The President of the Republic has entrusted me with the task of building a government with a clear direction: the defense of our independence and power, the service of the French people, and political and institutional stability for the unity of the country." Macron's decision to choose Lecornu, a one-time conservative, has raised concerns that it may alienate France's center-left Socialist Party. Analysts say this move indicates Macron intends to continue with a minority government. The National Assembly voted 287-221 to remove Bayrou from office over his proposed €51 billion in budget cuts aimed at addressing the country's debt crisis. The opposition party, La Republique en Marche (LREM), had accused Bayrou of being too radical and not working closely enough with other parties. "This decision is a clear indication that Macron wants to maintain control and continue with his minority government," said Jean-Pierre Filiu, a political analyst at the French Institute for International Relations. "However, this move may also lead to further polarization and instability in the country." Lecornu's appointment has sparked debate among lawmakers and analysts about the direction of Macron's government. Some have expressed concerns that Lecornu's background as a conservative may not align with the center-left policies of the Socialist Party. "This decision is a gamble for Macron, but it remains to be seen whether it will pay off," said Filiu. "Lecornu has his work cut out for him in resolving the ongoing crisis and addressing the country's economic challenges." The formal handover of power between Bayrou and Lecornu is set to take place on Wednesday, with Lecornu expected to outline his vision for the government and its priorities. As protests loom in the coming days, Macron's decision to choose Lecornu has raised questions about the future of his minority government. The appointment marks a significant shift in the country's politics, and it remains to be seen how Lecornu will navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries within the French parliament. In related news, protests are planned for this weekend in Paris and other major cities across France, with opposition parties calling for Macron's resignation over his handling of the economic crisis. The protests are expected to continue into next week as lawmakers debate the country's budget and economic policies. Macron's decision to choose Lecornu has sparked a heated debate among lawmakers and analysts about the direction of his government. While some see it as a necessary step to maintain stability, others believe it may lead to further polarization and instability in the country. As Lecornu takes over as prime minister, he faces significant challenges ahead, including resolving the ongoing crisis and addressing the country's economic challenges. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Macron's gamble pays off or leads to further instability in France. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*