Emmanuel Macron has a controversial plan to stay in power even if he loses the upcoming election to Marine Le Pen.
Faced with a potential political deadlock, Macron is considering invoking Article 16 of the French Constitution, which would grant him extraordinary powers.
According to sources reported by Europe 1, Macron has discussed this possibility with close associates, although the Élysée Palace has publicly denied these claims.
On July 7, if no party wins an absolute majority, the political stalemate could lead Macron to a drastic decision.
Instead of resigning, he might opt for Article 16, a constitutional provision that allows the president to assume full control in times of crisis.
The move would be unprecedented in recent history, with the Élysée denying any such plans, despite reports suggesting otherwise.
Article 16 of the Constitution can be activated under two circumstances: a threat of insurrection jeopardising national integrity or a disruption in the normal functioning of public authorities.
Macron might invoke the latter if the legislative elections result in a deadlock. This would give him sweeping powers, bypassing the usual checks and balances.
“If he decides to activate Article 16, the president is completely free, no counter-power, no other formality required of him, but after 30 days, oppositions can seize the Constitutional Council to have recognise or not the validity of this article 16,” Anne-Charlène Bezzina, a constitutional expert, told Europe 1.
While there is no maximum duration set for these exceptional powers, the Constitutional Council has the authority to review their validity after 60 days.
Historically, Article 16 has been used only once, by General de Gaulle in 1961 during a military crisis.
