Macron’s Struggle with Change: A Lesson for Africa

Emmanuel Macron’s rise to power in 2017, driven by his promise to overhaul France’s political system, inspired many globally. His En Marche! movement symbolized a break from traditional politics, appealing to those frustrated by the establishment. However, recent developments show that Macron’s vision for change is facing resistance. The appointment of a new Prime Minister, bringing back former prime ministers, signals that the political elite remains dominant in shaping the country’s direction.

This struggle is not unique to France. Across Africa, many leaders who promise reform often encounter the same powerful political forces that resist change. Despite popular support for transformation, the entrenched political establishment—corruption, patronage, and influential networks—can thwart efforts for real progress.

Macron’s challenges highlight the complexities of reform: it’s not just about the will of the people, but also navigating the entrenched systems of power. For African leaders, it serves as a reminder that true transformation requires dismantling the structures that perpetuate inequality and inefficiency, not just making promises.

Photo credit : AFP