French Prime Minister François Bayrou has unveiled his new cabinet, which includes two former prime ministers, Manuel Valls and Élisabeth Borne, marking a significant reshuffling of the French government.
This reshuffle comes after the ousting of the previous Prime Minister, Michel Barnier, following a vote of no confidence on December 4, 2024. The new cabinet, announced via a press release from the Élysée, reflects Bayrou’s intention to strengthen the administration with experienced leadership.
The cabinet has been downsized to 14 full ministries. Among the key appointments, Valls, who served as prime minister from 2014 to 2016, has been appointed to head the Ministry of Overseas Territories.
Borne, who held the role of prime minister from 2020 to 2022, will take on the responsibility of the Ministry of National Education, Higher Education, and Research. These strategic appointments reflect Bayrou's focus on continuity in leadership while addressing the evolving needs of the French government.
Bayrou’s government sees some familiar faces from the previous administration under Barnier. Three ministers from Barnier’s government will retain their positions, providing stability during this period of transition.
Bruno Retailleau remains as the Minister of the Interior, Sebastian Lecornu stays on as the Minister of Armed Forces, and Jean-Noël Barrot continues in his role as the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
In an effort to maintain gender balance, Bayrou has also appointed four female ministers from Barnier’s government. Rachida Dati will oversee the Ministry of Culture, while Catherine Vautrin will head the Ministry of Work, Health, Solidarity, and Families.
Agnes Pannier-Runacher retains her role as Minister for Ecological Transition, Biodiversity, Forests, Sea, and Fisheries, and Annie Genevard has been appointed as the new Minister of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty.
To tackle the 2025 budget, Bayrou has appointed Éric Lombard as the new Minister of Economy, Finance, and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty.
This move underscores the government’s commitment to managing France’s finances with a focus on economic and technological sovereignty in an increasingly interconnected world.
After the announcement of the new cabinet, Bayrou expressed pride in the collective of ministers he had assembled, emphasising their experience and commitment to rebuilding trust with the French public.
In a post on his X account, he stated that the new government was a team of seasoned professionals dedicated to renewing confidence among all French citizens.
French President Emmanuel Macron appointed Bayrou as the new prime minister on December 13, 2024, just days after Barnier’s departure.
Bayrou’s leadership will be put to the test as the first Council of Ministers meeting under the new government is scheduled for January 3, 2025, when the cabinet will begin to tackle the pressing issues facing the country, including economic recovery, education, and sustainability.
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