Paris is buzzing! 
In a political twist no one saw coming, French President Emmanuel Macron has asked the recently ousted Prime Minister Michel Barnier and his government to stick around just a bit longer—at least until a new prime minister is named.
According to a statement from the Elysee Palace on Thursday, \"The Prime Minister today submitted the resignation of his Government to the President of the Republic, who acknowledged it. Michel Barnier, together with the members of the Government, ensures the handling of current affairs until the appointment of a new Government.\"
This turn of events comes after Barnier's government was toppled by a vote from far-right and leftist lawmakers. Talk about unexpected alliances! 
This move has plunged France, the eurozone's second-largest economy, into deeper political uncertainty. Fun fact (or maybe not so fun for Barnier): he just became the shortest-serving prime minister in modern French history, holding the position for only 90 days! 
Word on the street (well, sources speaking to AFP) is that Macron is in a hurry to appoint a new premier to avoid leaving a power vacuum. Can't blame him—no one likes awkward silences, especially in politics! 
So, what led to Barnier's downfall? It all centers around his 2025 budget plan, packed with austerity measures that didn't sit well with the majority in parliament. Barnier argued these tough measures were essential to stabilize France's finances. Before the no-confidence vote on Wednesday, he passionately told lawmakers, \"This reality remains there; it will not disappear by the magic of a no-confidence vote.\"
Stay tuned, folks! France's political scene is heating up, and it's anyone's guess who will step into the prime minister's shoes next. 
Who do you think it might be?
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Macron asks Barnier and his government to stay on until next PM named
cgtn.com
