Paris Erupts in Protests Demanding Macron’s Resignation

Darwin, September 8 — Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of Paris on Saturday, calling for the resignation of French President Emmanuel Macron and for France to exit the European Union (EU). The protesters voiced strong opposition to the government’s financial policies and the growing budget deficit, according to a report by RT.

Macron’s popularity has hit an all-time low since he assumed power. A recent poll conducted for Le Figaro revealed that nearly 80% of French citizens no longer trust the president. Amid this wave of dissatisfaction, opposition parties have introduced a motion of no confidence against his government.

The protest was organized by “The Patriots,” a Eurosceptic party led by former National Rally politician Florian Philippot.

Demonstrators carried placards reading “Stop Macron,” “Stop the War,” and “Frexit” — advocating for France’s exit from the EU, modeled after Britain’s Brexit. Philippot’s party strongly opposes supplying weapons to Ukraine and warns against escalating tensions with Russia.

Public confidence has also sharply declined in Prime Minister François Bayrou, who took office less than two years ago as Macron’s fifth prime minister. His proposed budget has intensified political instability in France.

The country’s current budget deficit stands at 5.8% of GDP — nearly double the EU’s prescribed limit of 3%.

To address the crisis, Bayrou has proposed cuts to public sector jobs, welfare programs, and pensions. However, critics argue that the government is prioritizing military spending over social welfare.

Due to a lack of parliamentary support for the budget, Prime Minister Bayrou’s government is set to face a no-confidence vote on Monday.

Leftist party France Unbowed, the far-right National Rally, and the Socialists have all announced plans to vote against the government.

Meanwhile, left-wing activists and trade unions have called for a separate nationwide strike and protests on Wednesday under the slogan “Shut It All Down,” which is expected to further pressure the Macron administration.