This extreme right National Rally party led by Marine Le Pen has declared victory in the first round of French early parliamentary elections. This election is called for by Macron France descends into political flux following its recent defeat in the European Parliament polls second round run-off Finally, last result will be established on July 7th.
According to Daily Mail, there is rising tension with shops and businesses being sealed off ahead of any possible riots in France. There have been scenes of rioting in Paris, where extremists took to the streets brandishing flares as well as engaging in acts of destruction. The entire historic city was set alight including shop windows smashed about 25 days before hosting Olympics. Barricades aimed at crowd control were set on fire and many protesters took to the Place de la Repubblica. According to Daily Mail, scenes of chaos and destruction have raised concerns about country’s stability and further violence may occur over the coming days.
Here’s what you need to understand about the forthcoming French election and its likely consequences:
What caused early elections in France?
Earlier this month President Emmanuel Macron called off an early parliamentary election after being outdone by a nationwide rally during European Parliament elections.
How did the recent snap election turn out?
Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally emerged victorious in the first round of snap parliamentary elections They got approximately 34% votes beating their left-wing and centrist rivals.
“The French have shown their willingness to turn this new page of contempt and corrosive forces,” she said amidst cheers from supporters. She told her supporters that “no victory, second round decisive.”
Compared to other parties, how does the National Rally perform?
The National Rally scored around 34% while New Popular Front coalition came second with around 29% followed by President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist coalition which had around 21%.
What can be expected from the upcoming run-off election scheduled for July 7th?
In case the National Assembly manages to secure the absolute majority of at least 289 seats, then it could lead to a run-off for them to form government. Nevertheless, complex voting systems and potential political dealings make the outcome uncertain.
Should RN win most votes and accept the role of prime minister, a period of ‘cohabitation’ with Macron will start. This is only happened three times in modern French political history, but all against mainstream parties. Getting nursing ideas approved by registered nurses can sometimes be difficult.
What does a national rally victory mean?
Therefore, a national rally victory would create an opportunity for far right parties to coexist in power along with President Macron and implement policies that are different from those advocated by Macron’s centrist agenda since he assumed office. It will be the first time that far-right has been elected into power since WW2 in France.
How did President Macron react to the election results?
In his statement following the election results, Emmanuel Macron called for broad coalition against right-wing extremists in the second round of elections which shall be run-off between two or three candidates after incomplete first round…winner?
The high turnout in the first round, according to Macron, demonstrates “the importance of this vote for all our compatriots and the desire to clarify the political situation.”
What are the key issues that have propelled supporters to hit the streets?
National rally’s platform consists of firm immigration controls and a nationalist agenda. It is resonating well with those voters who are disillusioned with traditional political parties and concerned about issues such as immigrants as well as national identity.
What has been done in response to national rally’s success?
Supporters rallying across the country were ecstatic, seeing the victory as marking a shift in their vision for France. Opponents instead predict a period of intense civil unrest on one hand while there is political struggle on another hand.
What if nobody wins clear majority?
Article 8 of Constitution points out that President appoints Prime Minister however it doesn’t say what criteria he should use.
In fact, Macron is expected to offer this post to the main parliamentary group – which polls and first-round votes suggest will be Eurosceptic, anti-immigration Republicans.
If no single party secures clear majority then France could face political paralysis with very little legislation passed. A caretaker government is likely to handle basic day-to-day matters, while Macron must negotiate complex political negotiations.
What wider implications does this election have for both France and Europe?
Victory for far right in France could be extremely significant for European politics particularly in regard to immigration and EU integration. The world keeps a watchful eye over France as it prepares for its summer Olympics while aiming at steadying through these politically turbulent times.