France's National Rally Demands Absolute Majority to Lead Government

In a tightly contested race, France's political landscape is gearing up for a decisive showdown as Marine Le Pen's National Rally vies for an absolute majority in Sunday's legislative elections. Le Pen, speaking on Tuesday, asserted that her party would only consider leading the government if they secure this crucial mandate.

The National Rally, led by Jordan Bardella, emerged with the highest votes in the initial round of unexpected legislative elections on June 30 but fell short of a definitive victory. "We cannot contemplate governing if we do not have the ability to act," Le Pen emphasized in an interview with France Inter, underscoring the significance of a clear mandate from voters.

Following the first round, which saw significant gains for the National Rally, the stage is set for a pivotal second round on July 7. Le Pen's party faces formidable opposition from a left-wing alliance comprising the New Popular Front and President Emmanuel Macron's centrists, all mobilizing their supporters to prevent the far-right from securing unchecked power.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel    

The outcome of Sunday's elections remains uncertain, with scenarios ranging from a potential majority for the National Rally and its allies to a concerted effort by opponents to block what would be France's first far-right government since World War II. The stakes are high not only for domestic policy but also for France's role in European affairs and its global influence.

Amid heightened political tension, the legislative campaign has overshadowed preparations for the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. Leftist and centrist candidates who did not secure outright victories in the first round have strategically withdrawn from the race to consolidate votes against the National Rally in the final round.

"We have one goal today: to prevent the National Rally from gaining an absolute majority," stated François Ruffin of the France Unbowed party, part of the coalition opposing the far-right surge. The alliance includes French greens, Socialists, and Communists united in their bid to halt what they see as a threat to civil liberties posed by the National Rally's platform, which includes bolstering police powers and restricting dual nationals' access to certain jobs.

President Macron's decision to dissolve the National Assembly and call for snap elections in response to electoral setbacks earlier this year has been met with mixed reactions. Critics within Macron's camp argue that the move inadvertently bolstered support for the National Rally amid widespread discontent over economic challenges and immigration policies.

As France navigates this critical electoral juncture, all eyes are on the final round of voting, where the future direction of the country's governance and its impact on societal values and international relations hang in the balance.