PARIS – Marine Le Pen, long-time leader of France’s far-right National Rally (RN) party, will stand trial in Paris on Sept 30, alongside 26 others, for the alleged misappropriation of European Union (EU) funds. The trial, which follows nearly a decade of investigation, concerns accusations that Le Pen and her party used EU funds allocated for parliamentary work to pay staff engaged in party activities, which is against EU regulations.
Le Pen has denied the charges, maintaining that her party did not misuse the funds. This trial poses a significant risk for Le Pen as she continues to work towards making RN a viable governing party, while also potentially highlighting the party’s legal issues.
The case revolves around the alleged use of EU money to fund party work instead of parliamentary duties. Le Pen herself is accused of hiring fictitious assistants while serving as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP). Her father, Jean-Marie Le Pen, is also implicated, with allegations that their bodyguard, Thierry Legier, was paid as a parliamentary assistant despite primarily serving as their security.
If convicted, Le Pen could face up to 10 years in prison, a €1 million fine, and a five-year ban from public office. This trial comes as Le Pen prepares for the 2027 French presidential election, where she is considered a leading contender. The trial is set to run until Nov 27.