Le Pen Fights Five-Year Ban Following Conviction, Thousands Rally in Paris

Marine Le Pen, leader of France's far-right National Rally, has vowed to challenge her recent conviction for embezzling EU funds, which has resulted in a five-year ban from holding public office. Speaking at a rally in Paris with thousands of supporters, Le Pen described the ruling as a 'political decision' and a 'witch hunt' aimed at eliminating her from the 2027 presidential race. Her conviction, which includes a four-year prison sentence with two years suspended, has sparked significant protests and counter-rallies from various political factions, highlighting a deep divide in French politics. Supporters rallied around Le Pen, while opposition leaders criticized her claims as an attack on judicial independence and the rule of law. President Emmanuel Macron defended the judiciary's independence, amidst threats received by the judges involved in the case. The outcome of Le Pen's appeal could significantly influence France's political landscape leading up to the next presidential election.