Marine Le Pen, the leader of France's National Rally Party, is under intense scrutiny after an investigation was launched into her 2022 presidential campaign finances. The Paris Public Prosecution announced the probe, citing suspicions of embezzlement, fraud, and accepting a loan from a legal entity. This comes after a report from the committee monitoring candidates' expenses indicated potential violations.
The judicial investigation, which began on July 2, aims to uncover the nature of these alleged violations, including the misappropriation of property by public officials and the use of forged documents. Despite these serious allegations, Le Pen's lawyer, Rodolphe Bosslot, stated that his client had not been questioned and criticized the media for launching a campaign against her without specific allegations.
Adding to her legal woes, Le Pen and 24 others from her party are set to face trial on September 30 for allegedly embezzling European funds to pay party workers. This system of 'fictitious jobs' reportedly misused funds intended for MEPs' assistants, a practice also employed by other French parties. If found guilty, Le Pen could face disqualification from holding public office, jeopardizing her political future.
The timing of this investigation could not be worse for Le Pen, as it follows her party's disappointing performance in the recent legislative elections. The National Rally Party, which had hoped for a majority, came in third place with 143 seats, a significant increase from 88 but still falling short of expectations. This defeat has led to internal turmoil, with key figures like RN MEP Gilles Pennelle resigning and calls for better candidate selection and professionalization.
Despite the legal and political setbacks, the National Rally Party continues to grow in strength within the National Assembly. However, the deep disappointment from the recent elections and the looming trials could have long-lasting impacts on Le Pen's and her party's future.
- The Paris Public Prosecution's investigation into Marine Le Pen's campaign finances is based on a report from the National Committee for Election Campaign Accounts and Political Finance. This committee ensures financial transparency and compliance with legal limits during campaigns. If irregularities are found, it can take legal action, as is the case with Le Pen.
- Le Pen's legal troubles are compounded by a separate trial set for September 30, where she and 24 others are accused of embezzling European funds. This trial focuses on the alleged misuse of funds allocated for MEPs' assistants to pay party workers. The outcome of this trial could significantly impact Le Pen's political career, including a potential disqualification from holding public office.
- The recent legislative elections were a setback for the National Rally Party, which had hoped to secure a majority in the National Assembly. Despite increasing their seats from 88 to 143, the party fell short of expectations, leading to internal resignations and calls for better candidate selection. This internal turmoil adds to the challenges faced by Le Pen and her party.
