The leader of the French far-right movement "National Rally," Marine Le Pen, has officially declared her intention to participate in the 2027 presidential elections. She announced this decision immediately after the Paris Court of Appeal issued its ruling on the case regarding the misappropriation of European Parliament funds.
The fate of the verdict and the possibility of participating in the elections
The Court of Appeal confirmed the politician's guilt, however, it made significant changes to the previously issued verdict. The ban on holding elected office was reduced to 15 months. This change became a key factor allowing Le Pen to return to the political race for the next presidential cycle.
At the same time, the court sentenced her to three years in prison. It is important to note that part of this term falls directly during the election campaign period. Previously, Le Pen herself repeatedly emphasized that she would not want to campaign under electronic surveillance, considering it a factor that would undermine her position.
Appeal strategy
Despite the verdict, the politician does not intend to accept the current situation. In her statement, she pointed to the possibility of filing an appeal with the Court of Cassation. According to the leader of the "National Rally," if the highest judicial instance overturns the decision, she will be able to conduct her campaign without an electronic bracelet.
The court's position
Judge Michelle Agi, reading the verdict, emphasized the seriousness of the violations, which lasted for 11 years. In the opinion of the court, Le Pen's actions caused damage to European institutions and created unequal conditions for other political forces.
As early as July 1, Marine Le Pen declared her interest in a fourth participation in the presidential race, expressing confidence that she would continue to fight for her ideas despite legal obstacles.
