Rachida Dati and Carlos Ghosn face the final stages of their high-profile corruption and influence peddling trial as proceedings wrap up in late September 2026. The judicial showdown centers on a 2009 consulting contract that prosecutors argue masked lobbying activities incompatible with public office.
The financial prosecutor's office alleges that the agreement between the former minister and the auto executive involved covert lobbying at the European Parliament. Legal teams have scrutinized parliamentary questions and strategic notes as primary evidence during the intense hearings.
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SubscribeCarlos Ghosn remained absent from the courtroom, participating from abroad while facing sharp criticism from corporate legal representatives. Renault's defense team strongly denounced the former CEO's absence and labeled his evasion a refusal to face accountability.
Meanwhile, Rachida Dati delivered an aggressive defense throughout the hearings, vigorously denying any wrongdoing or conflict of interest. She maintained that her legal work was entirely legitimate and independent of her political mandates.
Dati Defends Legal Work As Prosecution Nears Final Arguments
Rachida Dati pushed back against the accusations during her extensive testimony, emphasizing her transition away from active politics in 2009. She insisted that her professional activities as a lawyer were fully transparent and legally compliant.
The former minister expressed intense frustration under questioning from civil parties, characterizing the line of inquiry as personal attacks rather than objective legal scrutiny. Her defense team supported her assertions that the contract represented genuine legal services.
Legal experts and witnesses debated the fine line between strategic legal advice and corporate lobbying during the tumultuous court sessions. The prosecution is expected to deliver its final sentencing requisitions as the trial reaches its definitive conclusion.
With public interest remaining exceptionally high, the verdict will mark a major milestone in one of the most closely watched corporate and political corruption cases of recent years.