Following a parliamentary vote that ousted the previous government, French President Emmanuel Macron appointed centrist ally François Bayrou as the new prime minister on Friday.

Mr. Bayrou, 73, a key figure in Macron’s centrist coalition and a veteran of French politics, brings extensive experience to the role. His appointment is crucial in efforts to stabilize the government, given the lack of a single-party majority in the National Assembly.

A statement from Macron’s office confirmed that Bayrou has been tasked with forming a new government.

The previous prime minister, Michel Barnier, resigned last week after a no-confidence vote triggered by budget disputes within the National Assembly, leaving France without a functioning government.

In a national address, Macron pledged to remain in office until his term concludes in 2027.

As Macron’s centrist alliance lacks a parliamentary majority, Bayrou’s cabinet will depend on support from moderate lawmakers across the political spectrum to maintain power. The new government is expected to include some conservative members.

Macron’s strategy aims to prevent far-right leader Marine Le Pen from wielding undue influence over the government. Le Pen contributed to Barnier’s downfall by collaborating with the left to pass the no-confidence motion.

Bayrou’s selection also aligns with Macron’s efforts to secure a non-aggression pact with the Socialists, ensuring they refrain from opposing the government in future confidence votes.

Bayrou heads the centrist Democratic Movement (MoDem), a party he founded in 2007.

He previously backed Macron’s 2017 presidential campaign and became a significant partner in the president’s coalition. He served briefly as justice minister before resigning amid an investigation into alleged embezzlement of European Parliament funds by MoDem.

This year, a Paris court cleared Bayrou of wrongdoing in that case, though eight other party officials were found guilty, and the party was fined.

Bayrou gained prominence during his tenure as education minister in a conservative government from 1993 to 1997.

He also ran for president three times: in 2002, 2007, and 2012.