French centrist party MoDem (Mouvement Democrate) leader Francois Bayrou. File
| Photo Credit: AP

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday (December 13, 2024) named centrist ally Francois Bayrou as Prime Minister, after a historic parliamentary vote ousted the previous government last week.

Bayrou (73), a crucial partner in Mr. Macron’s centrist alliance, has been a well-known figure in French politics for decades. His political experience is seen as key in efforts to restore stability as no single party holds a majority at the National Assembly.

Mr. Bayrou was recently cleared in a case alleging embezzlement of European Parliament funds.

Mr. Macron vowed last week to remain in office until his term ends in 2027.