Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been granted early release from a five-year prison sentence, having served just three weeks for his involvement in a criminal conspiracy. Following the court’s decision, Sarkozy will be placed under strict judicial supervision and will not be permitted to leave France.
Sarkozy, who is 70 years old, was sentenced on October 21 for conspiring to finance his 2007 election campaign with funds from the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. After his conviction, his legal team filed a request for release pending an appeal set for March.
As a condition of his release, Sarkozy is prohibited from contacting employees of the justice ministry. During his incarceration, Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin visited him, a move that resulted in 30 French lawyers filing complaints about a potential conflict of interest due to Darmanin’s prior relationship with Sarkozy.
In a video court appearance, Sarkozy described his experience in solitary confinement as distressing. The public prosecutor endorsed the release request but emphasized that Sarkozy should not communicate with witnesses related to the case known as the “Libyan dossier.” Sarkozy continues to deny any wrongdoing, asserting he never sought financial assistance from Gaddafi.
In expressing gratitude, he commended the prison staff for their humane treatment during his time in prison. Family members, including his wife Carla Bruni-Sarkozy and two sons, were present to support him in court.
Sarkozy is notable for being the first former French leader incarcerated since Philippe Pétain, who was jailed for treason in 1945. While imprisoned, he lived in isolation conditions that included basic amenities and limited outdoor time. Concerns for his safety were underscored by the presence of bodyguards, as indicated by the interior minister. Sarkozy served as president from 2007 to 2012 and has faced multiple legal challenges since leaving office, including a prior conviction related to attempts to bribe a magistrate.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cm2eppqd2nyo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss