Macron intends to appoint a new prime minister within 48 hours

French President Emmanuel Macron faces another challenge—he must find his sixth prime minister in less than two years.

The paralysis in parliament is hampering the passage of the budget, which investors consider crucial, and heightening concerns about the growing deficit.

Macron's office promised to appoint a new prime minister within 48 hours, but so far there has been no agreement between the parties. The majority of MPs reject early elections, but are divided on how to proceed. The left is calling for a prime minister from its ranks, while the right rejects this.

Another unresolved issue is pension reform, which part of the opposition wants to reverse. On the streets of Paris, there is hope that a new prime minister will bring stability and move things forward.

Despite the tensions, French bonds have held their value—the markets believe so far that the country will avoid early elections and that the budget will ultimately be passed.

(reuters, lup)