A French appeals court will rule this afternoon on Marine Le Pen's bid to overturn a ban that prevents her from holding elected office. The decision carries immense weight for the far-right leader's political future ahead of the next presidential election.
The ban, imposed after a previous conviction, bars Le Pen from running for public office for a set period. Today's ruling could either clear the way for her candidacy or cement her exclusion from the race, reshaping France's political landscape.
Le Pen's legal team argues the ban is disproportionate and politically motivated. The court's decision is expected within hours, with both sides prepared for a potential appeal to higher courts regardless of the outcome.
If the ban is upheld, Le Pen's party would likely need to field an alternative candidate, altering campaign dynamics. If overturned, she could immediately reenter contention as a leading opposition figure against President Macron's coalition.
Legal experts caution that any ruling will likely face further judicial review, prolonging uncertainty. The case underscores ongoing tensions between France's judiciary and political actors.