INTERNEWSTIMES.COM – Marine Le Pen, leader of France’s far-right National Rally (RN) party, is facing trial for alleged misuse of European Union funds. The trial, which began on Monday, marks a significant moment for Le Pen and her party, which has been working to normalize its image after years on the political fringe. Prosecutors accuse Le Pen and 26 other party members of participating in a scheme where lower-level employees were given higher-tier titles to receive EU funding. This alleged scheme, which ran from 2004 to 2016, involved giving employees like bodyguards titles like “EU parliamentary assistant” in order to receive European funds instead of using party funds.
If convicted, Le Pen could face imprisonment, a 10-year ban from politics, and a €1 million fine. The RN has described the investigation as a “persecution” and claims the case is based on a misunderstanding. However, the trial has raised serious questions about the party’s financial practices and could have a major impact on its future. The outcome of the trial could also have significant implications for Le Pen’s political career, particularly as she seeks to consolidate her position as a leading figure in the French political landscape. (Red)
