French far right leader on trial over Muslim prayer comments

Source: Associated Press

French far right leader on trial over Muslim prayer comments
Sylvie Corbet, Associated Press
Updated 11:55 am, Tuesday, October 20, 2015

PARIS (AP) — French far-right leader Marine Le Pen went on trial Tuesday over comments she made five years ago comparing Muslim street prayers to a foreign occupation.

At the end of the hearing, the public prosecutor asked for the case to be dismissed on the basis of freedom of expression. The court's ruling is expected on December 15.

Le Pen, whose National Front party is known for its anti-immigration and anti-Islam views, has been charged with inciting racial hatred in Lyon, where she faced four anti-racism and human rights organizations.

"I have the right, as a political leader, to evoke a crucial issue and it's even a duty for me to do it," Marine Le Pen told reporters when she arrived at the court.


Read more: http://www.chron.com/news/world/article/French-far-right-leader-on-trial-over-Muslim-6578769.php