Marine Le Pen has criticized the prosecution’s requisitions against her in the trial of FN parliamentary assistants, calling it a “violent attack on democracy.” The prosecution has requested five years in prison, including three suspended, a fine of 300,000 euros, and five years of ineligibility with immediate enforcement, which could prevent her from running in the next presidential election. Le Pen maintains her innocence and argues that she is being politically targeted rather than judged on legal grounds.
The prosecution alleges that Le Pen was at the center of an organized scheme to misuse European Parliament funds to finance the activities of the Front National. The accusations include the employment of fictitious assistants and financial benefits for close associates. The prosecution seeks to make an example of this case as a response to what they see as a serious breach of democratic norms. Le Pen denies any wrongdoing and claims that she is being unfairly targeted for political reasons, which threatens the French people’s right to choose their preferred candidate.
Twenty-five individuals, including Le Pen, are on trial for their alleged involvement in diverting EU funds meant for parliamentary assistants to finance the far-right party’s political activities. The estimated damage to the European Parliament is close to 7 million euros. The prosecution emphasizes the unprecedented scale, duration, and systematic nature of the alleged scheme, describing it as a well-organized operation orchestrated by the party leadership. This breach of democratic norms calls for a strong response.
The prosecution accuses Le Pen of not only being directly involved in the hiring of fictitious assistants but also being complicit as the party’s president at the time. They argue that she played a central role in decision-making and personally benefitted from the scheme. The prosecution highlights the financial gains made by Le Pen’s inner circle, including her sister, secretary, and close associates. The upcoming defense pleas will provide an opportunity for Le Pen and the other defendants to present their side of the story.
The trial is set to conclude on November 27, with the court announcing its decision date and entering the deliberation phase. A final judgment is not expected until early 2025, after the defense and prosecution have presented their arguments. The outcome of the trial could have significant implications for Le Pen’s political future and the broader landscape of French politics. The accusations and legal proceedings underscore the ongoing challenges and controversies surrounding campaign financing and political accountability. The verdict will be closely watched both within France and internationally.
