**In light of Marine Le Pen's recent disqualification from public office, the National Rally party plans a rally in Paris to protest what they describe as a politically motivated judicial decision.**
**Far-Right Rally Planned in Paris Following Le Pen's Disqualification**
**Far-Right Rally Planned in Paris Following Le Pen's Disqualification**
**Jordan Bardella urges supporters to protest against Marine Le Pen's five-year ban from politics amid growing tensions.**
French far-right officials are organizing a protest rally this Sunday in central Paris, led by Jordan Bardella, president of the National Rally (RN) party, to support Marine Le Pen following her recent disqualification from running for office for five years. The ruling stems from Le Pen's involvement in a significant embezzlement case concerning €2.9 million (approximately $3.4 million) of EU funds between 2004 and 2016. Although Le Pen has the option to appeal, the decision is effective immediately, complicated by an extensive appeals process that diminishes her chances of campaigning for the presidency in 2027.
During a press conference, Bardella stated that the reaction to the ruling must be one of "outrage." He emphasized the need for peaceful but assertive mobilizations, with the first gathering planned at the Place Vauban near the Eiffel Tower. Le Pen, a challenging figure in the French political landscape, characterized the ruling as a "nuclear bomb" aimed at sabotaging the RN's chances of reaching power, asserting that the establishment had unleashed this "weapon" due to their fear of their potential electoral success. "We will not stand idly by," Le Pen declared, urging supporters to channel their frustrations into sustained activism until triumph is achieved.
On the same day, Bardella criticized the judicial system for suppressing the RN's rise to power, condemning threats against the presiding judges, a sentiment reiterated by both Le Pen and Rémy Heitz of the Court of Cassation, who acknowledged the personal attacks faced by the justices involved. As tensions rise, reports state that President Judge Bénédicte de Perthuis, overseeing the Le Pen case, has received protective security measures due to threats.
Le Pen, aiming for a fourth presidential bid, has been seen as the more experienced candidate ahead of Bardella, who, at just 29, is regarded as potentially lacking the necessary qualifications for the presidency. Despite the current political climate, Bardella has not positioned himself as an alternative but will likely lead the party unless Le Pen's appeal is successful. A recent poll indicated that approximately 60% of RN voters would support Bardella over Le Pen if he were to run, evidencing a shift in party dynamics.
The controversy has caught international attention, with right-wing leaders across Europe and the U.S., including Hungary's Viktor Orban and former President Donald Trump, expressing their solidarity with Le Pen. Trump commented on the severity of her conviction, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized the ruling as an infringement on democracy, reflecting broader concerns on how the judiciary's decisions could impact political representation across the continent.
In addition to her disqualification, Le Pen was sentenced to a €100,000 fine and a four-year prison term, of which two years are suspended. This penalty will remain inactive until all appeal processes are resolved, which may extend for several years, further complicating her political future.
