Marine Le Pen Denies EU Fund Misuse as Appeal Trial Decides Her Political Future

Post by : Saif Nasser

French far-right leader Marine Le Pen has firmly denied accusations of misusing European Union funds as she faces a critical appeal trial in Paris. The case is closely watched because it will decide whether she can return to frontline politics and contest the 2027 presidential election.

Le Pen, a member of parliament and a leading figure of the National Rally party, was found guilty last year of misappropriating EU money. A court ruled that funds meant for work at the European Parliament were instead used to pay party staff in France. Because of this conviction, she was banned from holding public office for five years, a decision that took effect immediately.

During the appeal hearings, which began this week, Le Pen spoke in a calmer and more measured tone than in past court appearances. She focused on legal arguments rather than attacking the judges or the case itself. Still, she strongly denied any wrongdoing and rejected claims that her party had an organized system to misuse EU funds.

“I formally contest the idea that there was a kind of system,” she told the court. She argued that party staff were genuinely working, even if the way things were handled was not perfect. Le Pen also pointed to her late father, Jean-Marie Le Pen, saying that he was largely in charge of party operations until 2014. She admitted that internal management had flaws but insisted this did not amount to criminal behavior.

The case involves more than four million euros in EU funds and includes several other party members as defendants. Judges previously said the misuse took place over many years, from 2004 to 2016. Prosecutors argue that the money was clearly diverted from its intended purpose.

This appeal trial is expected to run until mid-February. A final ruling is likely before the summer. If the court lifts or shortens the ban, Le Pen could still enter the race for president in 2027. If not, her long-standing ambition to lead France could be permanently blocked.

The outcome matters not only for Le Pen but also for French politics as a whole. She remains one of the most influential figures on the right, with strong support among voters who are unhappy with traditional parties. Supporters say the case is political, while critics argue it is about accountability and respect for public funds.

As the judges consider the evidence and arguments, France watches closely. The decision will shape the future of one of the country’s most controversial leaders and could have lasting effects on the political landscape.