Barnier government forms amid Macron"s unity promises in France

On Saturday evening, newly appointed French ministers expressed their gratitude on social media, with some thanking both the president and prime minister, while others only acknowledged the prime minister. The newly formed government, the 45th of the Fifth Republic, is characterized by a division between Emmanuel Macron's loyalists and Michel Barnier's allies, with Rachida Dati being the most notable figure among the relatively unknown team. Despite the aim for national unity, the government appears imbalanced and lacks key political figures who could have added stability. The government formation followed two weeks of intense negotiations, but the outcome has raised concerns about its future viability. Macron's unrealistic goal for his prime minister to achieve national unity has not been met, as only Didier Migaud, a former Socialist MP, accepted a significant role, becoming the new Minister of Justice. His appointment comes at a time when the government is under pressure to deliver results amid a backdrop of political fragmentation. Bruno Retailleau, the new Interior Minister, represents the conservative Catholic right and has already sparked controversy among Macron's supporters due to his hardline stance on immigration and security. His commitment to restoring order and ensuring harmony reflects the government's urgent need to address public concerns. Retailleau's appointments of Nicolas Daragon and Othman Nasrou as junior ministers further emphasize the conservative shift within the administration. The exclusion of prominent political figures from the government indicates a strategic move to shield the fragile team from the pressures of the upcoming presidential campaign in 2027. As the government navigates these challenges, its ability to maintain cohesion and deliver on public expectations remains uncertain.