Marine Le Pen has launched her campaign for the 2027 French presidential election after an appeal court reduced her ban on running for office. The far-right leader was convicted for embezzling over €2.8 million from the European Parliament to fund her party, but the court shortened her disqualification, allowing her to stand.
Le Pen, who denies any wrongdoing, said she would appeal to France's highest court, the Court of Cassation, on a point of law. While the appeal is pending, her sentence—including a one-year custodial term to be served under electronic tagging—is suspended, enabling her to campaign without restrictions.
During a walkabout in La Flèche, Le Pen was greeted by supporters but also faced protests from left-wing activists who shouted insults. She insisted she was innocent and wanted to focus on political issues such as the cost of living and security, rather than legal matters.
Political opponents criticised her candidacy. Socialist MP Boris Vallaud called her a 'delinquent', while former prime minister Gabriel Attal said her campaign was 'hanging by a legal thread'. Le Pen's lawyer acknowledged that running while appealing was 'a risk'.
The Court of Cassation may rule early next year, but its decision will focus on legal procedure, not facts. If it rules against Le Pen, her sentence could become definitive, potentially requiring her to wear an electronic tag before the election. However, delays in fitting the tag could allow her to reach the presidency without it.
