Thousands protest across France against Macron's choice of PM

8/9/2024 6:27

        Thousands of protesters took to the streets across France on Saturday, responding to a call from a far-left party leader who criticised the president's appointment of a conservative new prime minister, Michel Barnier as a power grab.
        
        The protests are a direct challenge to President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to bypass a prime minister from the far-left bloc following a deeply dividing legislative election in July. The left, particularly the France Unbowed party, views Barnier’s conservative background as rejecting the electorate’s will, further intensifying the already charged political atmosphere.
        
        Authorities expected tens of thousands of demonstrators. In Paris, protesters gathered at Place de la Bastille and tensions ran high as police prepared for potential clashes. Other rallies in 150 points nationwide include the southwestern cities of Montauban and Auch.