Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally party in the French parliament, intends to participate in the election even if the court imposes a suspended sentence.
Oxu.Az reports that Le Pen stated this on RTL radio.
"Of course, I will be a candidate," she said when asked whether she would stand if a suspended prison sentence is imposed.
Le Pen added that she will continue to use all available means to defend herself:
"But if the court of justice prevents me from being a candidate and campaigning, then I will not participate."
It is noted that the Paris Court of Appeal will announce a decision on July 7 regarding Le Pen's appeal against the verdict in the case of fake hiring of parliamentary assistants using European Parliament funds.
The first-instance court sentenced Le Pen on March 31, 2025, to four years in prison, two of which she must serve with an electronic bracelet (the other two years suspended). The court also banned her from holding elected office and running in elections for five years.
Unlike the prison sentence, this measure took effect immediately and can only be lifted by a successful appeal. The ban does not apply to her current seat as a member of the lower house of parliament.
France's presidential election is scheduled for April next year.
