French leftist leader facing charges for intimidation and violence against anti-corruption investigators

Jean-Luc Melenchon captured on video shouting at officers

Legal proceedings have been launched against France’s leftist leader for intimidation and violence against anti-corruption investigators following a raid on his party’s headquarters.

Jean-Luc Mélenchon was captured on video shouting before pushing investigators and police officers as they searched for evidence for judicial probes into election and party financing.

The raids were part of a long-running investigation into the alleged misuse of European Parliament funds to pay party employees.

The 2017 presidential candidate was captured on video angrily shouting "I am the Republic!" and "kick down the doors, comrades!".

Mr Melenchon, 67, accused the government of deliberately targeting him, calling the raid "a politically motivated act" and "an act of political aggression".

The politician, born in Morocco, also blamed the explosive reaction on his roots in an interview to BFMTV: "I've the right to get annoyed. I'm Mediterranean."

His outburst - notably saying "My person is sacred" and "No one can touch me" - became instant viral hits on social media in France.

The politician, who has been an innovator in French politics with his use of video and social media, filmed himself during the raid and posted it live online.

Mr Melechon's France Unbowed party is not the only one in France whose finances are being scrutinised. The far-right party of Marine Le Pen is also under investigation over its use of European parliamentary funds.

Last year he criticised Ms Le Pen for not co-operating with investigators.

In the National Assembly on Tuesday, Ms Le Pen surprisingly threw her support behind Mr Melenchon, her political and ideological arch rival.

Agencies contributed to this report