Mass Protests Erupt in France Over Appointment of New Prime Minister

Thousands of left-wing supporters took to the streets in France on Saturday to protest the appointment of centre-right Michel Bernier as prime minister, denouncing President Emmanuel Macron’s “power grab” and failure to take into account the results of legislative elections.

Protests were held in several cities, including Paris, Nantes, Nice, Marseille, and Strasbourg, with demonstrators chanting slogans such as “Deny democracy,” “The French didn’t vote for it,” and “Let Macron resign.”

Protesters Express Anger and Discontent

Protesters expressed their anger and discontent with the appointment of Bernier, who was chosen by Macron to form a government despite the left-wing coalition topping the assembly election results last July.

“We feel that we as voters are not being heard,” said Cindy Rondino, a 40-year-old photographer who took part in a protest in Nantes with her partner, 42-year-old farmer Abin Gouraud. “We are in a state of extreme rage.”

Younger Generation Leads the Protests

The protests saw massive participation from the younger generation, with many expressing their frustration with the current government.

“We feel like we’ve been robbed,” said Aurelie Malvan, 24, a student. “For Macron, I think the result of the vote is not important. He already knows who he wants to put in power.”

French Presidency Defends Bernier’s Appointment

The French presidency confirmed that the selection of Bernier was determined by his ability to “come together as widely as possible” in a fragmented political scene.

Protesters Vow to Continue Fighting

Protesters vowed to continue fighting against the government, with many expressing their determination to make their voices heard.

“It’s a dictatorship,” said protester Alexandra German. “For a while, we weren’t heard on the streets, and now we’re not heard at the ballot box. Protesting is my only way of saying that I disagree, although I know very well that it will not work.”

Bernier Begins Consultations to Form Government

On Friday, Bernier began consultations to form a government, extending his hand to various formations and stressing the importance of “listening to many” and “respecting all political forces” represented in parliament.

Socialist Party Secretary-General Olivier Faure confirmed that “there will be no Socialist Party figures in his government,” stressing the strength of the left and the new prime minister cannot rely on the left.