France’s left is celebrating Le Pen’s conviction – The Guardian

The Guardian, as always, issues a very leftist opinion piece.

It appears that the political spectrum is developing more and more into a right and left extremism. The centrist political groups are evaporating. Both, extreme right and left appear more and more to eye with instruments other than political speech and convincing arguments but tend to eliminate their opponent by force or otherwise using government powers.

Marine Le Pen has been condemned by an ordinary tribunal for facts that are sensible enough to justify a criminal judgement. Le Pen has always claimed her innocence and will appeal against the judgement which is not yet executable.

That’s why it is surprising that the judgment’s accessory, the interdiction to present to an election for 5 years, has been declared executable. The judgement, not being final and subject to appeal can be suspended until final judiciary review. A provisory execution of the inelligibility for a political position seems extreme in the case of Le Pen’s political leadership, in particular, for an European civil law practitioner, as well when knowing that it is not always applied by the French tribunals. But there are always arguments pro and contra a Judge’s decision.

Le Pen will not be able to present herself to the next presidential elections. She had some good chances to win the presidency but now she will be excluded by the Judge’s decision. Her political career is terminated.

The fact that France’s left is celebrating a  victory makes the situation more awkward. Yes, the personality of Le Pen was a driver for success but her party may as well appoint a candidate with good chances. As the Guardian fears correctly, Le Pen’s elimination may easily bring additional votes to her party.

And finally, Donald Trump’s statement of support for Le Pen, as well as those of other leaders in Europe (Italy, Hungary) would allow Le Pen’s party some more success.