Marine Le Pen Faces Trial Over Alleged Misuse of EU Funds
The trial of French far-right leader Marine Le Pen and 24 members of her National Rally party has officially commenced at the Paris criminal court. They are facing serious allegations of misusing European Union funds to cover the salaries of party employees, a case that could have significant implications for Le Pen's political future.
Le Pen, who has consistently denied any wrongdoing, emphasized her commitment to defending parliamentary freedom. As she arrived at court, she expressed confidence, stating, "We did not violate any laws," and mentioned having substantial evidence to support her defense. The trial is expected to last two months, concluding on November 27, 2024.
Among those on trial are nine former Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), including Le Pen herself, her party’s vice-president, and other prominent party figures. They are accused of using EU funds to pay aides who were allegedly working for the National Rally rather than fulfilling their official duties in Parliament. This investigation, which began in 2015, scrutinizes activities dating back over a decade, from 2004 to 2016.
If convicted, Le Pen could face up to 10 years in prison and a hefty fine, alongside a potential 10-year disqualification from holding public office, jeopardizing her ambitions for the 2027 presidential election. The European Parliament has estimated financial damages at approximately 3 million euros ($3.34 million), demanding the return of 2 million euros, while asserting that 1 million euros already repaid does not equate to an admission of guilt.
