Paris | October 6, 2025 —
In a dramatic turn of events, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu resigned on Monday, less than a month after his appointment — setting a new record for the shortest tenure of any head of government under France’s Fifth Republic.
The resignation came just hours after Lecornu unveiled his new cabinet, which immediately drew widespread backlash from opposition parties and coalition partners. The abrupt departure throws France deeper into political turmoil amid an already fractured parliament.
Speaking from the steps of the Hôtel de Matignon, Lecornu cited a lack of parliamentary cooperation and political deadlock as the reasons behind his decision. “Parties continue to behave as if they command an outright majority — they do not,” he said. “Under these circumstances, I cannot govern responsibly.”
President Emmanuel Macron accepted Lecornu’s resignation following a brief meeting at the Élysée Palace. The president now faces a critical choice: appoint a new prime minister capable of unifying the fragmented legislature or dissolve the National Assembly and call fresh elections.
Lecornu’s proposed government was seen by critics as too closely aligned with his predecessor’s, offering little substantive change. The backlash intensified as key political factions threatened to file a no-confidence motion even before the government could begin functioning.
This marks France’s fifth prime ministerial resignation in just two years, highlighting the growing instability Macron’s administration has faced since losing a parliamentary majority in 2024. Analysts warn that the ongoing gridlock is eroding public trust and could undermine Macron’s ability to pass key reforms.
With France now in political limbo once again, all eyes are on the Élysée as the nation awaits the president’s next move.
