Marine Le Pen, a leading far-right figure in France, faces a court verdict on charges she and her party officials embezzled funds from the European parliament. If convicted, she could be barred from running for president in 2027 and face severe penalties, including a fine of €300,000 and a five-year ban from holding public office.
The verdict will determine Le Pen’s future in French politics, as she has a significant following among the population – with 42% wanting her to run in the next presidential election. However, some party members have expressed concerns about their leader’s eligibility, citing a lack of planning for alternative scenarios.
Prosecutors have accused Le Pen of seeking her “political death” and claim that making her ineligible would undermine democracy. The case involves allegations of fake jobs scams, with €7 million in embezzled funds at stake. Despite denying the charges, Le Pen’s future hangs in the balance if she is found guilty.
If convicted, Le Pen will likely appeal, which could lead to a new trial and postpone any penalties. A five-year ban on public office would also put her 2027 presidential bid in jeopardy, unless the appeals process is expedited. The outcome of the verdict remains uncertain, leaving Le Pen’s fate and France’s political landscape hanging in the balance.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/30/marine-le-pen-alleged-embezzlement-verdict