Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been sentenced to five years in prison for criminal conspiracy linked to illegal campaign financing from late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, marking one of the most dramatic downfalls in French political history.
A Stunning Fall from Power
Sarkozy, who swept into the Elysée Palace in 2007 promising to modernize France with his energetic and uncompromising style, has faced years of legal scrutiny since losing office in 2012. Thursday’s verdict makes him the first French head of state in decades to be sentenced to actual prison time.
The 70-year-old former president has already been convicted in two previous corruption-related cases but avoided jail. This latest ruling, however, ensures that prosecutors will notify him within a month of when he must report to prison, regardless of his planned appeal.
Sarkozy defiant after verdict
Speaking to journalists outside the Paris court, Sarkozy remained defiant:> “I will comply with the court’s decisions. If they want me to sleep in prison, I will sleep in prison with my head held high. I am innocent. This injustice is a scandal,” he said, accusing his critics of harboring endless hatred against him.
The ruling follows years of allegations that Sarkozy’s 2007 presidential campaign received millions in illegal funds from Libya. According to prosecutors, Sarkozy and his aides conspired with Libyan officials to funnel money that violated French campaign finance laws.
About the Author
