Marine Le Pen, the French far-right politician recently found guilty of embezzling public funds and now barred from running for office, addressed her supporters on Sunday, declaring: “I will continue to fight.”
Le Pen, who is appealing the ruling, stood confidently in front of a swath of French flags, telling the crowd: “For 30 years I have fought against injustice.”
Thousands of her supporters gathered at Place Vauban, near the golden dome of the Invalides and Napoleon's mausoleum, in what was billed as a protest but observers said had all the hallmarks of a campaign rally.
Le Pen's National Rally party organised the event in response to what it called a politically motivated court ruling.
Jordan Bardella, a 29-year-old Le Pen protege and president of the National Rally, gave a speech accusing French judges of trying to silence the opposition.
“March 29 was a black day for France,” he said, referring to the date of Le Pen's conviction.
“Citizens must be able to freely choose their leaders – without interference from political judges.”
Although Mr Bardella insisted his party would uphold democratic principles, he criticised judges' unions and warned of “a system designed to stifle dissent”.
Supporters held signs reading “Justice is being ordered” and “End the judicial dictatorship.”
Le Pen was found guilty of using European Parliament funds intended for her aides to finance the salaries of party staff in France.
The court described this as a “democratic evasion.”
She was given a four-year prison sentence, including two years under house arrest and two suspended sentences, and was banned from holding public office for five years with immediate effect. Her appeal is expected next year.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
