Paris: France's far-right National Rally (RN) has initiated the repayment of nearly $3.8 million to the European Parliament after being held liable in a significant case involving the misuse of EU funds meant for parliamentary assistants, as reported by media outlets on Tuesday. The party, led by Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella, has already made an initial payment of approximately $1.64 million.

According to Anadolu Agency, a second installment is expected in October, as part of a settlement following a March 31 ruling by the Paris Judicial Court. The court determined that former National Front MEPs, now part of the RN, had employed assistants who primarily served the party rather than fulfilling EU parliamentary duties.

It mandated the party to repay $3.54 million in economic losses to the European Parliament and an additional $218,000 for moral damages, amounting to nearly $3.8 million, excluding interest. A source close to the party remarked on the financial burden, particularly as the RN gears up for the 2027 presidential election.

Instead of pursuing a legal delay in payment, an option under French civil procedure, Le Pen chose to comply immediately. A party insider indicated that this decision was to foster a positive mindset ahead of an appeal and to prevent European Parliament bailiffs from seizing party assets.

Party President Jordan Bardella has criticized the ruling as a 'financial killing,' while Le Pen contended it was an effort to undermine democratic competition in France. RN Treasurer Kevin Pfeffer stated, 'We still plan to self-finance part of the campaign-around $5.5 to $6.5 million,' but acknowledged the challenge of securing cooperation from French banks.

RN has not yet confirmed whether Le Pen or Bardella will be the candidate for the 2027 election. Pfeffer noted, 'We've emphasized that the polls are strong for both,' with supporters of Marine Le Pen also backing Jordan Bardella.