Marine Le Pen Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison for Embezzlement, Banned from Elections

Marine Le Pen, leader of France’s National Rally, faces a five-year political ban after being convicted of embezzlement. The court sentenced her to a £84,000 fine and four years in prison—two of which may be served under an electronic bracelet. This ruling effectively bars her from the 2027 presidential election, as prosecutors sought both a longer ban and a five-year jail sentence. Le Pen’s abrupt exit from the Paris courtroom stirred disbelief among onlookers.

The court found that Le Pen, alongside 24 other officials, used EU funds meant for parliamentary aides to finance party staff, violating EU regulations from 2004 to 2016. The judge characterized her actions as a “serious and lasting attack on democratic rules in Europe, especially in France.” Le Pen has vowed to appeal the ruling, asserting her innocence and insisting she was targeted politically.

Public reaction is divided. Supporters claim the judgment undermines democracy, while critics argue that the judiciary should not decide electoral eligibility. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban voiced his support, stating, “Je suis Marine!” as calls for political reform amplify.

Le Pen’s controversial legacy, stemming from her father’s far-right ideologies, has significantly shaped her political identity as she attempts to broaden the National Rally’s appeal. With Emmanuel Macron unable to run in 2027, Le Pen’s prospects remain uncertain yet pivotal in French politics.