French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday named ally Francois Bayrou as prime minister, after a historic parliamentary vote ousted the previous government last week.
Mr Bayrou, 73, a crucial partner in Mr Macron’s centrist alliance, has been a well-known figure in French politics for decades.
His political experience is seen as crucial in efforts to restore stability as no single party holds a majority at the National Assembly.
Mr Bayrou was recently cleared in a case alleging embezzlement of European Parliament funds.
Mr Macron vowed last week to remain in office until his term ends in 2027.