In a historic move, President Emmanuel Macron has appointed Gabriel Attal.
The 34-year-old French education minister is the country’s youngest-ever prime minister.
Attal’s appointment marks a significant moment as he becomes the first openly gay man to hold this position.
Solidifying his status as one of the world’s prominent LGBTQ politicians.
A rising star in Macron’s Renaissance Party, Attal previously served as the minister of education and national youth since July.
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His tenure included controversial decisions, such as banning the wearing of the abaya in French public schools and addressing the issue of bullying in schools.
Macron expressed confidence in Attal’s capabilities, stating,
“I know I can count on your energy and your commitment.” In response,
Attal thanked Macron for his trust and pledged to “keep control of our destiny” while unleashing France’s potential.
In a speech outlining his priorities, Attal emphasized education as “the mother of our battles,” vowing to make it a top priority during his term.
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He outlined key focus areas, including education, inflation, liberalization of the French economy, and youth development.
Attal’s political journey, initially aligned with the centre-left Socialist Party, shifted to the centre as he joined Macron’s centrist movement.
Rising through the ranks
His rapid progression saw him as the government spokesman during the pandemic, boosting his profile among the French public.
Replacing Elisabeth Borne, Attal takes charge amid challenges, including forming a new government and advancing Macron’s legislative agenda.
However, the real power lies with the French presidency.
Borne, the first female prime minister in three decades, faced a tumultuous 20-month tenure marked by unpopular retirement reforms and urban riots.
Her departure precedes a much-anticipated cabinet reshuffle as Macron seeks a political reset ahead of European elections and the Paris Olympics.
Attal, perceived as one of Macron’s well-liked government members, faces scrutiny and expectations.
Marine Le Pen criticized the reshuffle as a “childish ballet of ambitions and egos,” signalling a heated political climate leading up to the upcoming EU vote on June 9.
