Le Pen Banned for Five Years Amid Judicial Controversy in France

Marine Le Pen, leader of France's far-right National Rally, has been sentenced to a five-year ban from political office following her conviction for embezzling EU funds, raising significant concerns about judicial independence and political interference. The Paris court's ruling, which includes a four-year prison sentence (two suspended), has sparked widespread backlash from her supporters and international allies, who argue it is a politically motivated attempt to eliminate a leading candidate for the 2027 presidential election. Prominent figures, including Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Italy's Matteo Salvini, have condemned the decision as a 'declaration of war' against democracy. Conversely, an opinion poll indicates that nearly 60% of respondents view the ruling as justified, although 42% perceive political bias in the decision. Legal experts maintain that the evidence against Le Pen supports the ruling and that such judicial actions are consistent with France's anti-corruption laws. This case highlights a growing trend of accusations of 'lawfare' across Europe, where judicial decisions are seen as tools for political suppression.