CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Following the elections that failed to produce a clear majority, France is entering a phase of political uncertainty. The final round saw the far-left coalition, the New Popular Front, make unexpected gains, disrupting the earlier dominance of the far-right and the centrist coalition.
What could happen next in France with no party gaining majority?
Also Read | French election results: Deadlock as left coalition emerges on top, Le Pen’s far-right bloc pushed to third
Hung Parliament
None of the three major political blocs secured the 289 seats needed for a majority in the 577-seat National Assembly. This hung parliament situation is unprecedented in recent French political history. The National Assembly, the more powerful of France’s two parliamentary houses, will start its new session on July 18, with the new legislators beginning work on Monday.
Macron’s Dilemma
President Emmanuel Macron now faces the challenge of forming a stable government. One potential path is negotiating a deal with the moderate left, though this would be difficult given France’s lack of tradition in such arrangements. Macron has ruled out working with the hard-left France Unbowed party but might seek an alliance with the Socialists and Greens. However, their cooperation is uncertain.
If no political deal is reached, Macron might appoint a government of unaffiliated experts, but this too would need parliamentary approval.
