President Emmanuel Macron’s contentious nomination of Richard Ferrand to lead France’s Conseil Constitutionnel was approved by the slimmest of margins.
Ferrand secured the position at the highest constitutional authority by just one vote, narrowly avoiding rejection in a highly unusual and dramatic confirmation process. However, his nomination, announced earlier this month, sparked widespread criticism from Macron’s political opponents and legal experts.
Critics pointed to his close ties to the president and his limited legal background as reasons for concern. Unlike many constitutional courts, France’s Conseil Constitutionnel is not exclusively composed of trained judges or lawyers, and it often includes former politicians.
The deeply divided French legislature and the polarising nature of Ferrand’s nomination turned the process into a high-stakes political battle. No previous nominee in modern French history has come so close to being rejected.
National Rally’s abstention secures Ferrand’s confirmation
Ferrand’s confirmation was ultimately secured with an unexpected assist from the National Rally (RN), which chose to abstain rather than vote against his appointment. Spokesperson Bryan Masson told reporters that Ferrand had “reassured” national-oriented lawmakers during his confirmation hearing.
However, the National Rally has a vested interest in the composition of the Conseil Constitutionnel, as the court is set to rule on a case that could directly impact the political future of RN leader Marine Le Pen. Currently, she faces trial for alleged involvement in an embezzlement scheme, with prosecutors requesting to ban her from running for public office for five years.
While Macron’s allies celebrated the outcome, critics warned that Ferrand’s close relationship with the president could undermine the perceived independence of the Conseil Constitutionnel. The controversy also underscores the growing influence of the National Rally, which has increasingly positioned itself as a key player in French politics.
Meanwhile, the court’s decision on Le Pen’s eligibility will be closely watched as a test of its independence and commitment to upholding constitutional principles.
