Asger Risom
French president calls for respect of judiciary as far-right leader faces prison term and political ineligibility
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The relationship between politics and justice has always been sensitive in France, especially when prominent figures face criminal charges. But when courts rule against key political leaders, responses from the top can either defuse tensions — or inflame them.
Macron responds amid backlash
French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday offered his first comments on the sentencing of Marine Le Pen, stating that “judicial authority is independent” and that “magistrates must be protected.” His remarks came during a closed-door cabinet meeting and were later reported by government spokesperson Sophie Primas.
Macron avoided directly addressing the verdict but reiterated what his office called “general principles,” emphasizing the role of justice as a pillar of democracy. He also stressed that “all litigants have the right to appeal,” suggesting that Le Pen still has a path forward, despite a court ruling that currently bars her from running for office for five years.
As reported by Digi24, Macron made clear that threats against judges were “absolutely intolerable,” following days of harsh rhetoric from Le Pen and her allies, who have denounced the decision as a “scandal” and a product of systemic bias.
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Political fallout ahead of 2027
Le Pen was sentenced on Monday in the so-called “parliamentary assistant” case involving the misuse of EU funds. The court’s ruling includes a five-year ban on holding public office, effectively sidelining her from the 2027 presidential race — at least for now. Her party, the National Rally (Rassemblement National), has called the case politically motivated.
International allies from far-right factions in Hungary, Russia, Brazil, and the United States have rushed to her defense, criticizing what they see as a politically driven verdict.
Nonetheless, Macron’s statements underscored a firm commitment to the French judiciary’s autonomy. “Justice must be respected,” said Primas, speaking on the president’s behalf. “We are in a democracy.”
