Supporters of French far-right leader Marine Le Pen were gathering in Paris on Sunday to protest her conviction for embezzlement and a five-year ban on running for office. Le Pen, who is appealing the verdict,

Thousands of supporters gathered near the tomb of Napoleon for what was billed as a protest — but observers said it had all the markings of a campaign rally.

Thousands of supporters gathered at Place Vauban for the event organised by Le Pen’s party, the National Rally.