In a significant ruling, Marine Le Pen, leader of France's far-right National Rally (RN), has been found guilty of misappropriating European Union funds intended for her political party. This verdict presents dire ramifications for Le Pen's political future, specifically the possibility of being barred from running in the upcoming 2027 presidential election.
Marine Le Pen Convicted in EU Fund Misappropriation Case
Marine Le Pen Convicted in EU Fund Misappropriation Case
Marine Le Pen faces potential ineligibility for future elections following her conviction for embezzling EU funds.
The presiding judge has yet to announce the specific sentence, but prosecutors recommended a harsh penalty including a €300,000 fine and a prison term, along with a five-year disqualification from holding public office. The judge emphasized that this ineligibility should take effect immediately, creating a potential obstacle for Le Pen's political ambitions should she be convicted.
Le Pen, alongside over 20 senior members of her party, was accused of utilizing EU resources to pay assistants who were ostensibly employed for her political endeavors rather than their intended duties in the European Parliament. Throughout the trial, Le Pen staunchly denied any wrongdoing, asserting that she had not committed "the slightest irregularity."
The court's reading of the verdict commenced shortly after 10:00 AM local time, with proceedings expected to extend for approximately two hours. As this story evolves, further details will continue to emerge, underscoring the impactful nature of this ruling on Le Pen's political career.
For instant updates, you can follow @BBCBreaking on X, and receive the latest alerts via the BBC News App for your smartphone or tablet.
Le Pen, alongside over 20 senior members of her party, was accused of utilizing EU resources to pay assistants who were ostensibly employed for her political endeavors rather than their intended duties in the European Parliament. Throughout the trial, Le Pen staunchly denied any wrongdoing, asserting that she had not committed "the slightest irregularity."
The court's reading of the verdict commenced shortly after 10:00 AM local time, with proceedings expected to extend for approximately two hours. As this story evolves, further details will continue to emerge, underscoring the impactful nature of this ruling on Le Pen's political career.
For instant updates, you can follow @BBCBreaking on X, and receive the latest alerts via the BBC News App for your smartphone or tablet.
