Rachida Dati faces trial for corruption and abuse of power

In France, Rachida Dati, the former Culture Minister, has been charged with corruption and abuse of power stemming from her tenure as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) from 2009 to 2019. She is accused of receiving 900,000 euros as lawyer’s fees from a subsidiary of the Renault-Nissan consortium between 2010 and 2012, despite failing to perform legitimate work for the company. Allegations indicate that she may have engaged in illegal lobbying for the car manufacturer while in office, a practice that breaches EU regulations governing MEP conduct. Dati has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has attempted to have the charges dismissed, but these efforts have been unsuccessful so far. The case also involves Carlos Ghosn, the former CEO of Renault-Nissan, who has been implicated due to his alleged payments to Dati in return for her lobbying endeavors. Ghosn, who fled to Lebanon after escaping charges from Japanese authorities, has been labeled an international fugitive. The investigation has drawn significant media attention given the high-profile nature of both individuals involved and the intricate legal issues surrounding corruption and lobbying practices within European political institutions. A hearing scheduled for September 29 is expected to determine the trial date, which could potentially take place after the municipal elections in Paris set for March next year. The unfolding events not only jeopardize Dati's political aspirations in the upcoming elections, including her ambition to become Paris mayor but also reflect broader concerns regarding ethics and transparency in EU governance. Continued scrutiny of unlawful lobbying and corruption remains critical in sustaining public trust amidst allegations tied to influential figures.