CWEB News – French far-right leader Marine Le Pen has been barred from contesting the 2027 presidential election after a Paris court sentenced her to a four-year prison term, with two years suspended, to be served under house arrest. The court also imposed a five-year ban on her holding public office, effectively blocking her presidential ambitions. Her party, the National Rally (RN), faces a €2 million fine for embezzling European Union funds meant for parliamentary staff salaries.
Court Ruling and Embezzlement Charges
The case centered on allegations that RN diverted €6.8 million in EU funds between 2004 and 2016 to finance party activities rather than legitimate expenses. Nine RN-affiliated European Parliament members, including Le Pen, and 12 assistants were found guilty. Prosecutors argued the scheme allowed the party to redirect public money to bolster its operations, a claim Le Pen dismissed as politically motivated.
Le Pen’s Defiant Response
In a televised address on TF1, Le Pen condemned the ruling as a “political attack” designed to sideline her anti-immigration, Eurosceptic movement. “Millions of French citizens feel betrayed by this decision,” she stated, vowing to appeal. “I will fight not just for myself but for all who believe in reclaiming France’s sovereignty.”
Broader Political Implications
The ban intensifies turmoil in French politics, where Le Pen’s RN has gained traction amid voter dissatisfaction with President Emmanuel Macron’s policies. Analysts warn the ruling could inflame tensions ahead of potential snap elections, which Macron might call amid legislative gridlock. Legal experts note appeals could take years, leaving Le Pen sidelined during a critical period.
International Reactions
- Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán criticized the verdict as “anti-democratic.”
- Italy’s far-right League party pledged solidarity with Le Pen.
- U.S. President Donald Trump called the ruling “a disgrace to free speech.”
Historical Context
Le Pen joins a growing list of French politicians facing legal repercussions. Former President Nicolas Sarkozy is currently under house arrest for corruption, while ex-Prime Minister François Fillon was convicted in 2020 for misusing public funds. However, Le Pen’s case marks the first time a leading presidential contender has been barred preemptively.
What’s Next for the Far-Right?
With Le Pen temporarily ousted, attention turns to her protégé, RN President Jordan Bardella, 28, who may emerge as the party’s new face. Meanwhile, protests have erupted in Paris, with RN supporters calling the ruling a “judicial coup.”
CWEB News will provide ongoing updates on this developing story.
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