Le Pen Blames European Parliament in Appeal That Could Decide Political Fate
Marine Le Pen, the prominent leader of France’s far-right National Rally party, has recently addressed a Paris court in an appeal that could significantly impact her political future. Le Pen is contesting her conviction for misappropriating EU funds, claiming she had no sense of having committed an offence.
Key Points of the Appeal
– Background of the Case:
– Le Pen was convicted last year for employing assistants for her party’s affairs, who were funded by the European Parliament (EP).
– She argued that the EP failed to fulfill its responsibilities by not raising alarms about the misuse of these funds.
– Current Legal Situation:
– Le Pen is appealing a five-year ban from holding public office, a ruling that, if upheld, would prevent her from running in the upcoming 2027 presidential election.
– The Paris Court of Appeal will hear the case until February 12, but a judgment isn’t anticipated before summer.
– Previous Conviction:
– The case involved Le Pen and over 20 other senior party members who used European Parliament resources to pay for National Rally staff based in France.
– She received a four-year prison sentence—two years suspended—and was fined €100,000 (£82,635). Additionally, the party was ordered to pay a €2 million fine, with half suspended.
Implications of the Appeal
The outcome of this appeal has major implications for Le Pen and her party:
– Possible Outcomes:
1. Overturning the Verdict: If the appeal succeeds, Le Pen’s name could be cleared, allowing her to run for president for a fourth time.
2. Affirming the Verdict without Immediate Effect: This would still permit Le Pen to register for the election while appealing further to the Court of Cassation.
3. Reduced Ban Duration: A shortening of the five-year ban could enable her to participate in the 2027 race.
4. Upholding the Entire Verdict: A complete affirmation would severely restrict her ability to run for office, forcing her to appeal the case further.
5. Stiffening the Sentence: This outcome would eliminate her chance of contesting, as the offence carries a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years.
Political Climate and Future Prospects
As the 2027 presidential election approaches, much depends on the timing and substance of the appeal’s outcome. Le Pen has reached the run-off stage in previous elections, and many of her supporters believe she has a strong chance if her eligibility is restored.
– Support from Party Officials:
Jordan Bardella, president of the National Rally, emphasized that barring Le Pen from running would be deeply worrying for democracy. He has opted not to run for president but will pursue the prime ministerial role.
– Polls Indicate Shift:
A recent poll published by Le Monde suggests that Bardella may have a better chance of winning the presidency, showing support at 49% compared to 18% for Le Pen.
The political fate of Marine Le Pen hangs in the balance, with the appeals court’s ruling poised to shape the future of French far-right politics and the overall political landscape in Europe.