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Paris, Tuesday, December 24, 2024 (OLA NEWS) – On Christmas Eve, two former French Prime Ministers, Élisabeth Borne and Manuel Valls, made a notable comeback to the French political scene, each assuming leadership of key ministerial roles. Their appointments signal a strategic move to reinstate experienced figures in pivotal government positions.
Élisabeth Borne Returns to Lead the Ministry of National Education
Élisabeth Borne, who served as Prime Minister during Emmanuel Macron’s second term, has been appointed Minister of National Education. During the handover ceremony, Borne appeared determined and focused, ready to tackle the challenges of her new portfolio, particularly in the context of ongoing education reforms. Her return to one of the most central ministries in the French government marks a significant chapter in her political career.
Manuel Valls: A Comeback to France After a Spanish Detour
Meanwhile, Manuel Valls, Prime Minister under François Hollande, officially took office as Minister of Overseas Territories, drawing attention due to his unconventional political journey. After leaving French politics in 2018, Valls pursued a political career in Spain, running for mayor of Barcelona. However, his bid was unsuccessful, as he was defeated by incumbent mayor Ada Colau. Following his political setback in Spain, Valls now returns to France to take on a key ministerial role. The handover ceremony at the Hôtel de Montmorin showcased a politician eager to leave behind past defeats and revive his career in his home country.
A Strong Political Statement Ahead of 2025
These returns highlight the government’s strategy of leveraging experienced political figures to navigate a period marked by social and political challenges. While Élisabeth Borne and Manuel Valls represent distinct political trajectories, their appointments demonstrate a commitment to drawing on resilience and expertise in a time of significant transition.
Reporting and picture by Arnaud Cesar Vilette, Ola News Paris, Ola News Barcelona; editing by Alexandre Minguez
