Court Battle: Marine Le Pen's Political Future in Jeopardy

French prosecutors are seeking a five-year ban on holding elected office against Marine Le Pen, jeopardizing her 2027 presidential run. The trial revisits her 2025 misappropriation of EU funds conviction. Verdict outcomes range from acquittal to harsher penalties, potentially affecting her political career significantly.

French prosecutors are intensifying their legal pursuit against far-right leader Marine Le Pen, proposing a five-year ban on her from holding elected office.

This move aims to obstruct her from participating in the 2027 presidential election. At the center of this case is Le Pen's alleged misuse of European Parliament funds, a charge she is appealing after being convicted in March 2025.

Prosecutors allege she spearheaded a scheme to divert EU funds for her party's benefit, demanding she serve one year of house arrest and pay a hefty fine. While awaiting the appeals court's decision, Le Pen's political future hangs in balance, as outcomes could range from acquittal to severe penalties.

(With inputs from agencies.)