Jean-Marie Le Pen, French far-right politician, dies aged 96

Jan 7, 2025 - Jean-Marie Le Pen, the former leader of France’s far-right National Front party, has passed away at the age of 96. His death marks the end of a long and controversial political career that spanned several decades.

Le Pen, a military officer and politician, founded the National Front in 1972 and led it until 2011. He was a prominent figure in French politics, known for his hardline stance on immigration, nationalism, and the European Union. Under his leadership, the party grew to become a key force in French politics, despite the controversy surrounding its policies.

Le Pen gained international attention in 2002 when he reached the second round of the presidential election, facing off against incumbent Jacques Chirac. His unexpected success shocked the French political establishment, marking a turning point in the country's political landscape.

Although he retired from active politics in the years following his resignation as party leader, Le Pen's influence continued to resonate in French politics. His daughter, Marine Le Pen, succeeded him as leader of the party, later rebranding it as the National Rally. She has since run for president three times, solidifying the party's position as one of France’s leading political forces.

Throughout his career, Le Pen remained a polarizing figure, with supporters praising his unapologetic approach to issues like national identity and European integration, while critics accused him of promoting xenophobia and racism.