Nicolas Sarkozy Begins Five-Year Prison Sentence for Campaign Finance Conspiracy

Paris –  In a historic and dramatic turn of events, former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has begun serving a five-year prison sentence after being convicted of criminal conspiracy related to illegal campaign financing. The 70-year-old leader, who governed France from 2007 to 2012, becomes the first modern-era French head of state to be incarcerated.

The Charges and Conviction
Sarkozy was found guilty last month of accepting millions of euros in illicit funds from the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi to finance his 2007 presidential campaign. The court ruled that the former president engaged in criminal conspiracy and violated campaign finance laws, a verdict that sent shockwaves through France’s political establishment.

Despite his conviction, Sarkozy has maintained his innocence. In a statement posted on social media as he departed for La Santé prison in Paris, he declared: “It is not a former president of the republic being jailed this morning, but an innocent man. Truth will prevail.”

A Somber Departure
Sarkozy left his upscale Paris residence hand-in-hand with his wife, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, accompanied by their children and grandchildren. Hundreds of supporters gathered outside, waving French flags and chanting “Free Nicolas!” as he was driven away in a police convoy.

Some supporters held up portraits of the former president, while others distributed t-shirts bearing his image. “This is truly a sad day for France and for democracy,” said Flora Amanou, 41, one of many who had traveled to Paris to witness the moment.

Life Behind Bars
Sarkozy will serve his sentence at La Santé prison, a facility known for housing high-profile inmates. Reports indicate he will be kept in solitary confinement for security reasons. His legal team has filed an immediate request for release pending appeal, but the court has ordered incarceration to begin without delay.

Political and Legal Fallout
The case has reignited debates over political ethics and accountability in France. Sarkozy’s conviction marks a rare instance of a European Union leader being jailed for corruption-related charges. Analysts suggest the ruling could have ripple effects on how campaign financing is scrutinized across the continent.

While Sarkozy’s political career had already waned, the imprisonment casts a long shadow over his legacy. His supporters argue that the charges are politically motivated, while critics hail the verdict as a victory for judicial independence.