Macron Calls for Centrist Unity to Prevent Far-Right Victory

French President Emmanuel Macron has urged centrist political forces to unite ahead of the upcoming snap parliamentary elections to prevent the far-right from winning.

This call to action follows Macron’s decision to dissolve the National Assembly and hold additional elections.

The appeal came after a significant defeat for the pro-presidential forces in the European Parliament elections, where the right-wing populist party, National Rally, led by Marine Le Pen, garnered twice as many votes. Macron stressed the need for “people of goodwill who can say ‘no’ to extremism” to come together and develop a common project for the country.

Macron criticised what he termed “unnatural alliances at the two extreme poles,” where agreement is limited to the distribution of positions rather than any substantive programme. This was a reference to the coalition of left-wing parties and the recent statement by the leader of the right-wing Republicans about the possibility of aligning with Le Pen’s party, a move that has drawn backlash from many influential members within his party.

The president also dismissed rumours of his potential resignation if his party performs poorly in the snap elections. Macron reiterated his commitment to leading the country despite the political challenges.

Opinion polls indicate that the far-right National Rally has a strong chance of winning the upcoming elections, though it is unlikely to secure an absolute majority. Macron’s call for unity among centrists comes at a critical time as France faces political instability and the potential rise of far-right influence.

Macron dissolved the French parliament on 9 June following his party’s defeat in the European Parliament elections. He announced that the snap elections would be held on 30 June (first round) and 7 July (second round).

This development marks a pivotal moment in French politics, as the outcome of the snap elections could reshape the country’s political landscape. The president’s appeal for centrist unity aims to create a counterbalance to the growing far-right momentum and to offer a viable alternative for governance.

The stakes are high as France approaches the election dates, with Macron’s leadership and the future direction of the country hanging in the balance. The president’s call for unity is a strategic move to consolidate moderate forces and prevent a shift towards far-right policies, which could have significant implications for France’s domestic and international stance.

Read also:

Marine Le Pen “Ready to Take Power” as Macron Calls Snap-Election After Far-Right Gains Across Europe

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