The French cabinet is expected to undergo a reshuffle as Eduardo Philippe resigns from the post of Prime Minister. Philippe had seen an increase in his popularity in recent weeks, even though the government faced criticism in handling the coronavirus.
A cabinet reshuffle was imminent, especially after Sunday's local elections, where Macron's party faced defeat in some of the biggest cities in France.
Philippe is expected to continue handling government affairs till the new cabinet is formed.
Philippe's resignation could, however, dampen President Emmanuel Macron's intent to get re-elected. Currently, he seeks to open a new chapter for the two remaining years of his term that will focus on relaunching the French economy, which was deeply hit by the coronavirus crisis. Macron on Friday also said that he will prioritise the fight against climate change.
Various names, including that of chief EU Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, was being put forth to replace Philippe.
Other possible contenders include Jean-Yves Le Drian, the foreign minister or defence minister Florence Parly.
