The former leader of the right-wing National Rally party has told the crowd she “will continue to fight” following her conviction

Thousands have gathered in central Paris in support of the former leader of the right-wing National Rally party (RN), Marine Le Pen. The three-time presidential candidate received a prison sentence for embezzlement last Monday.

Backed by 120 RN MPs, Le Pen addressed the crowd from a temporary stage erected at Place Vauban on Sunday. She called her prosecution a political “witch-hunt,” vowing to “not give up.” 

“This decision has trampled on everything I hold most dear: My people, my country, and my honor,” she said as supporters waved flags and chanted “Marine for president!” and “They won’t steal 2027 from us!”

A Paris court sentenced Le Pen to four years in prison, two of which are suspended, while the other two will be served under a form of house arrest. She also received a five-year ban on holding political office, which effectively disqualifies her from the 2027 presidential race.

BREAKING:

Thousands gather in Paris to protest against a French court banning Marine Le Pen from running for president in 2027

The protest was called by the President of the National Rally, 29-y-o Jordan Bardella who have to replace Le Pen as the party’s presidential candidate pic.twitter.com/2whvxhpmWx

— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) April 6, 2025

According to the prosecutors, the veteran politician used EU funds intended for the work of aides in the European Parliament to pay for staffers in France. She denied any wrongdoing and vowed to appeal the verdict.

During the rally, Le Pen blasted the EU and its anti-fraud agency, OLAF, calling it a “totalitarian organism.” 

“The system’s only purpose is to stay in place, no matter the cost,” she said, claiming that certain politicians are being persecuted throughout the EU.

Source: RT - Daily news