Marine Le Pen decries election ban as a severe blow to her 2027 ambitions

Wednesday 02 April 2025 - 10:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Marine Le Pen decries election ban as a severe blow to her 2027 ambitions

Marine Le Pen, the leader of the National Rally (RN) parliamentary group, has vocally condemned the court's recent ruling that bars her from running in elections for five years. The decision, which she labeled a “nuclear bomb” against her political career, is seen by Le Pen as an attempt by the judicial system to thwart her chances in the upcoming 2027 presidential election.

The court found Le Pen guilty of misusing public funds linked to her European Parliament assistants, resulting in an immediate five-year ineligibility. This ruling effectively prevents her from participating in any elections during this period, although she retains her status as a member of parliament.

In a meeting with RN colleagues at the National Assembly, Le Pen asserted, “If they are using such a powerful weapon against us, it is because we are close to winning.” She has pledged to challenge the ruling and has already initiated plans to appeal.

Jordan Bardella, the RN president, echoed Le Pen's sentiments, expressing outrage over what he termed the “tyranny of judges” and a violation of the rule of law. He affirmed that the RN's pursuit of power would not be diminished by this setback.

Legal experts suggest that Le Pen's appeal could extend over a considerable period, potentially culminating in a new trial in 2026, with a final verdict likely to emerge just months ahead of the presidential election.

In light of the court's ruling, the National Rally has mobilized efforts to garner public support for Le Pen, including a petition titled “Save democracy and support Marine.” The party is also organizing demonstrations and distributing leaflets nationwide to rally their base.

Le Pen condemned the court's decision as an affront to voter freedom, stating, “Forcing voters to choose another candidate is a disgrace. No other country operates this way.”