France's left-wing figure Jean-Luc Melenchon asserts the left's preparedness to lead following its emergence as the largest bloc in parliament, though the country faces a political impasse without a decisive winner.

The New Popular Front (NFP) coalition, spearheaded by Melenchon and partners, secured a plurality in France's National Assembly during the recent parliamentary elections, capturing 187 seats out of 577, as per interior ministry data.

The outcome dealt a blow to President Emmanuel Macron, as his centrist Ensemble alliance clinched 159 seats. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal offered to resign, but Macron requested his continuation to ensure stability.

Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN) and allies ranked third with 142 seats, despite a strong initial showing. Collaborations between centrist and leftist factions thwarted RN's governance prospects.

The surge of the far right raised concerns, especially among minorities, as RN assumed a significant political role.

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Who will be France’s next PM?

Al Jazeera's Step Vassen anticipates Macron's deliberate approach to allow the political landscape to stabilize before instigating major changes.

The NFP coalition promptly appealed to Macron to grant them an opportunity to form a government. The alliance pledges to reverse many of Macron's key reforms, initiate expansive public spending, and adopt a stern stance against Israel due to its actions in Gaza.

"In line with our institutional norms, Emmanuel Macron should officially invite the New Popular Front to nominate a prime minister today," articulated Green leader Marine Tondelier, a potential prime ministerial candidate from the NFP.

Melenchon emphasized the potential for major decision-making, domestically and internationally, indicating swift actions, such as recognizing the State of Palestine as a priority.

Will the NFP forge consensus?

The unity and agreement on a future path within the NFP – encompassing leftist parties like Melenchon's France Unbowed (LFI), the Socialist Party, the Greens, and the Communist Party – remain uncertain.

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In his initial response, RN leader Jordan Bardella criticized the collaboration of anti-RN forces as a "disgraceful alliance" that threatens to paralyze France.

Le Pen, the probable presidential candidate for 2027, viewed the recent elections as laying the groundwork for the future, despite setbacks.

‘Cracks appearing’

Vassen mentioned emerging divisions within the NFP camp that Macron might exploit for his own advantage.

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