Nicolas Sarkozy Begins Prison Sentence for Campaign Finance Crimes

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has begun serving a prison sentence on March 5, 2024, following his conviction for a criminal conspiracy involving illicit funds from Libya to finance his 2007 election campaign. This marks a historic moment, as Sarkozy becomes the first former leader of modern France to be incarcerated. He is contesting both the conviction and the judge’s decision to imprison him while awaiting an appeal.

Sarkozy’s transition from the Elysée Palace to La Santé prison in Paris has drawn significant attention across the nation. His son, Louis Sarkozy, organized a rally in support of his father in the upscale Parisian neighborhood where they reside with his wife, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy. Bruni-Sarkozy has actively expressed her support for her husband on social media, sharing family photos and songs dedicated to him.

In the days leading up to his incarceration, embattled centrist President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Sarkozy at the presidential palace. Macron commented, “I have always been very clear in my public statements about the independence of the judiciary… but it was normal on a human level to receive one of my predecessors in this context.”

Sarkozy has indicated that he anticipates being placed in solitary confinement for security reasons. Alternatively, he may be held in a designated area for “vulnerable” inmates, often referred to as the VIP section. In an interview with Le Figaro, he stated, “I’m not afraid of prison. I’ll hold my head high, including in front of the doors of La Santé. I’ll fight till the end.”

As he prepares for prison life, Sarkozy has packed essentials, including clothes and the maximum allowed ten family photos. He also plans to bring three books, one of which is Alexandre Dumas‘ classic, “The Count of Monte Cristo,” known for its story of escape and revenge.

A Paris judge ruled that Sarkozy must begin his sentence immediately due to the “seriousness of the disruption to public order caused by the offense.” According to this ruling, the 70-year-old politician can only submit a request for release to the appeals court once he is incarcerated, with judges allowed up to two months to process the request.

This unprecedented legal circumstance surrounding Sarkozy’s incarceration not only highlights the challenges faced by political figures but also raises discussions about accountability and the legal system in France. The outcome of his appeal could have lasting implications for the future of French politics.