The Russian Foreign Ministry has commented on the recent demand made by the Paris Prosecutor's Office to deprive the leader of the parliamentary faction of the "National Union" party, Marine Le Pen, of her freedom. The spokesperson for the Ministry stated that this demand, as well as the potential loss of her voting rights, demonstrates how "democracy in France has gone wild."
The Paris Prosecutor's Office has requested a punishment of five years of imprisonment for Le Pen, including three years on probation and two years with an electronic bracelet. In addition, she faces up to ten years of imprisonment, the loss of her freedom, and a €300,000 fine. The investigation into Le Pen's activities and her party began in June 2014 and is still ongoing. The accusation against her involves illegal financing of her 2022 election campaign.
The French prosecution has accused Le Pen of money laundering through the fictitious employment of assistants to Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). She, her father, and 23 members of the "National Union" party have been charged with "misuse of public funds" from the European Union between 2004 and 2016.
According to French legislation, presidential candidates during their pre-election campaigns must not exceed the set spending limit. The state reimburses a portion of the expenses if the conditions are met. If the rules are violated, the CNCCFP can reduce the amount of the reimbursement and, if necessary, initiate an investigation.
