Prosecution Seeks Five-Year Ineligibility for Marine Le Pen, Sparking Political Debate

On February 4, 2026, during the appeal trial in Paris concerning European Parliament assistants linked to the Front National, the public prosecutor requested a five-year ineligibility sentence against Marine Le Pen. This penalty, if imposed, would bar Le Pen from running in the 2027 presidential election. However, unlike the prior trial, immediate enforcement of this sentence was not sought. The court's verdict is expected by summer, and it is not required to follow the prosecutor's recommendation.

Jean-Philippe Tanguy, a Rassemblement National member, expressed that the ineligibility request was not surprising and voiced confidence that Le Pen would ultimately be cleared. Tanguy remarked that the current proceedings have been more routine compared to the "troubling facts" in the first trial. Another RN spokesperson, Philippe Ballard, stated the decision would be critical for Le Pen's presidential ambitions. Meanwhile, Le Pen continues to deny any wrongdoing, asserting her good faith as her defense team prepares arguments until February 11.

Antoine Vermorel-Marques, vice-president of the Républicains (LR), emphasized that "Marine Le Pen is not above the laws" and highlighted the pressing legal challenge she faces. He also called for a clearer stance from his political faction against the National Rally, asserting that those who do not view RN as an opponent should reconsider their membership.

The situation underscores the widening political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly between the far-right RN and other right-wing parties. The court's summer ruling will significantly influence the political landscape and Le Pen's candidacy prospects.