France’s main left-wing coalition has accused President Emmanuel Macron of denying democracy after he rejected the New Popular Front’s candidate for prime minister following last month’s inconclusive election. As per the French Constitution, Macron has the sole power to name the prime minister.

With an early legislative vote in July producing no clear winner, French politicians have been deadlocked over forming a new government. Tensions are rising, with major protests planned against Macron as the Paralympic Games kick off in Paris this week.

The New Popular Front coalition, which won the most seats in the National Assembly, has insisted on having a prime minister from their ranks. However, Macron turned down their nominee, citing the need for “institutional stability.”

The fractured parliament has no majority party. Macron called for left-wing leaders to cooperate with other parties, including his centrist alliance, but the rejection from leftists led to calls for mass protests against the president.

Green Party leader Marine Tondelier criticized Macron for denying democracy and pledged to reject any non-left-wing government. Similarly, France Unbowed’s François Ruffin called for Macron’s removal, blaming him for chaos and instability.

While some within the Socialist Party signaled openness to further talks with Macron, there is a growing divide on the left over how to respond to the political impasse.

Macron’s office is in consultation to form the most stable majority possible, but the absence of a dominant political bloc poses unique challenges in French political history.

Potential candidates for prime minister, including Bernard Cazeneuve and Xavier Bertrand, highlight the need for a coalition that spans center-left to traditional right-wing parties.

The French president aims to navigate the crisis as the country transitions to a new government amid ongoing challenges, including the aftermath of recent extremist attacks.

Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding political saga.