In my political science and constitutional law recollections, it seemed to me that the expression «remaniement ministériel» was used when modifying the structure of the government without touching its head, and «nouveau gouvernement» was used for the new team formed following the Prime Minister's resignation, even in the event that they were reappointed to their post.
The fact that the operation we have just witnessed has been described as a reshuffle is not without significance. Indeed, while the press letting itself indulge in approximations is quite forgivable, the fact that at no point was there any official semantic correction is surprising. One cannot believe it is out of ignorance. No doubt it is because, in truth, very little has changed. We have witnessed a simple game of musical chairs intended to get rid of unknowns or traitors.
Actually, we've simply appointed a new acting Prime Minister, since we've known for a long time that the entire essence of governmental authority is concentrated in the hands of the grand puppeteer to whom all ministers are attached by strings, which he shortens or cuts as he pleases, plunging those who have displeased him into the void of disgrace.
All this reflects less a change in continuity than dynamism within stasis. It is no longer the politics of the tango, but of the Madison (since an Anglo-Saxon touch is de rigueur): a few steps forward, back, to the side, you clap your hands and start all over again to end up back where you started, having had the sensation of having moved forward when you have stayed practically in the same place.
Yet it is not for want of having given ourselves time for reflection. For weeks we have been under pressure, held in suspense waiting for an event of major significance. Failing to reshuffle it, they have merely shrunk the cabinet table: all the Government members being physically «within striking distance». This goes to show that in this insular circle, we will carry on with petty, narrow-minded politics, devoid of grandeur and vision, a small-scale brew simmering on a low heat.
BY CYRANO
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