Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne’s use of article 49.3 of the Constitution to adopt the text on the expenditure part of the 2024 budget has caused a lot of ink to be spilled. This is the 16th time that this measure has been used since his arrival at Matignon, which provokes contradictory reactions from the different political actors.
The choice to use article 49.3, which allows a text to be adopted without a parliamentary vote, was justified by the need not to deprive France of a budget. Élisabeth Borne stressed that there was no alternative majority capable of agreeing on a budget, which reinforced her decision to resort to this contested measure.
However, this recurring use of 49.3 immediately aroused reactions of disapproval, in particular from the deputies of La France insoumise. The latter announced the tabling of a motion of censure, although this did not benefit from the support of the right. The text of the motion of censure denounces the “austerity cure” of the budget and criticizes the use of this measure considered as an attack on democracy.
This situation not only raises questions about the excessive use of 49.3, but also about the democratic functioning of France. Critics of this measure denounce an authoritarian government which does not hesitate to flout democracy to get its decisions passed.
In addition, some point to the slow pace of review of the text and the addition of billions of additional expenses that could have distorted its content. The opposition groups, for their part, seem to stick to their positions of principle by rejecting the budget, whatever its content.
Faced with these criticisms, the government tried to spare the deputies by letting a few days pass before using 49.3 again, in order to allow the examination of certain sovereign credits in the Assembly.
However, this repeated use of 49.3 raises questions about the need to reform this measure and strengthen democratic control mechanisms. It is essential to find a balance between effective governance and respect for democracy.
In conclusion, the use of article 49.3 by Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne to adopt the text on the expenditure part of the 2024 budget provoked passionate reactions. While some defend this decision as necessary to ensure the continuity of the State, others see it as an attack on democracy. This situation raises questions about the need for a reform of 49.3 and a strengthening of democratic control mechanisms.