French President Emmanuel Macron has tasked Michel Barnier, former EU Brexit negotiator, with forming a new government, two months after the nation's legislative elections.In the past few days, political circles and media outlets had widely anticipated the announcement of a new prime minister to succeed Gabriel Attal, following elections that resulted in a fragmented political landscape, with no party securing a clear majority in Parliament.Two prominent figures were considered for the role former Socialist Prime Minister Bernard Cazeneuve and Xavier Bertrand, leader of the right-wing "Republicans" party. However, parliamentary dynamics ultimately did not favor either candidate. The surprise announcement of 73-year-old Barnier caught many off guard.Both Cazeneuve and Bertrand faced the potential threat of a no-confidence vote, likely backed by the left-wing bloc and far-right factions. However, discussions between Macron and Barnier at the Elysee culminated in an agreement, marking Barnier's return to t he political forefront after failing to secure support from the "Republicans" in the 2022 presidential race.Barnier is seen as a politically viable candidate, popular among right-wing MPs without provoking strong opposition from the left. His appointment could pave the way for the formation of a government, offering a potential resolution to the two-month political deadlock. Despite ongoing challenges, Macron cannot call for early elections before July next year, as stipulated by the French constitution.The constitution grants the President the authority to appoint a prime minister, subject to confirmation by Parliament.Source: Qatar News Agency