France: Left-wing parties choose little-known civil servant as prime minister, prompts clash with President Macron

A coalition of France left-wing parties has selected Lucie Castets, a relatively unknown civil servant, as their choice for prime minister.

This decision comes after weeks of internal disputes following snap parliamentary elections that had left the country in a state of political deadlock.

However, President Emmanuel Macron wasted no time in rejecting the coalition’s nominee. In his first interview since the elections, Macron announced that he would not appoint a new government until at least mid-August. Until then, his current cabinet will remain in a caretaker capacity, ensuring stability during the upcoming Paris Summer Olympics.

While the French president has the sole authority to appoint the prime minister and the cabinet, there is no constitutional deadline for him to make the decision. Macron’s choice must theoretically reflect the political balance in Parliament, adding further complexity to the situation.

The left-wing coalition, known as the New Popular Front, released a statement affirming their support for Lucie Castets. The 37-year-old civil servant, who has previously worked in France’s treasury and anti-money-laundering unit, currently handles financial matters at Paris City Hall.

Castets is a graduate of the prestigious École Nationale d’Administration and is an active member of a civil servants association that has been critical of President Macron’s policies.