After several weeks of intense debate and parliamentary confrontations, the National Assembly definitively approved the 2026 budget on Monday evening. This approval follows the rejection of two motions of censure filed against the government, thus concluding the legislative process and providing the state with a financial framework for the coming year.
The motions of no confidence fail against the government
During the day, members of parliament considered two attempts to bring down the government. The first, put forward by independent left-wing groups, failed to reach the threshold required for the executive's resignation, garnering only 260 votes out of the 289 needed. The second motion, supported by the National Rally and other right-wing parties, obtained 135 votes. These results confirm the opposition's inability to bring down the government despite its repeated efforts.
A controversial use of Article 49.3
The government had already invoked Article 49, paragraph 3 of the Constitution to pass the budget without a direct vote, a measure that drew sharp criticism. Some members of parliament, including some within the majority, regretted this recourse, arguing that it limited parliamentary debate on a fundamental text. Nevertheless, the maneuver allowed the government to maintain order and ensure the budget's adoption, despite the palpable political tension in the chamber.
The end of a legislative marathon
With the final approval of the budget, the National Assembly concludes a long cycle of negotiations and political confrontations. The text must still be reviewed by the Constitutional Council, which can be petitioned by opposition members of parliament before its promulgation. This step marks the end of a process characterized by repeated gridlock, while also providing the State with financial visibility for 2026.
A still tense political context
While the government may emerge victorious from this budget cycle, the political landscape remains fragmented. Persistent tensions in the National Assembly reflect deep divisions between the majority and the opposition, in a sensitive electoral context with municipal elections and other upcoming deadlines. The adoption of the 2026 budget therefore does not quell the controversies, but it does confirm the government's ability to stay the course in the face of opposition.
