Sarkozy Handed 5-Year Sentence in Stunning Downfall

French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been sentenced to five years in prison for criminal conspiracy. The charges relate to attempts to secure illegal campaign funds from Libya before the 2007 presidential election. The Paris court delivered the ruling on Thursday, shocking political allies and critics alike. Sarkozy becomes the first post-war French president to face jail time. His legal team has already announced plans to appeal the verdict.

Sarkozy reacted strongly after the court’s decision, calling it “scandalous” and a threat to justice. He denied all wrongdoing and claimed the ruling undermines the rule of law. “If they want me to sleep in jail, I will, but with my head held high,” he told reporters. His wife, Carla Bruni, stood by his side during the emotional moment. Sarkozy insisted he would not apologise for something he did not do.

The court cleared Sarkozy of several charges, including corruption and receiving illegal campaign money. However, it found him guilty of criminal conspiracy between 2005 and 2007. The judge said Sarkozy allowed close aides to reach out to Libya for campaign funds. Although there was no proof of money reaching his campaign, the court found the effort itself criminal. Once Sarkozy became president in 2007, he was protected by presidential immunity.

The sentence takes effect immediately, giving Sarkozy only a short time to prepare. He must report to prison by mid-October. Authorities have not revealed the exact prison, but Paris’s La Santé is seen as the likely destination. That facility has previously held high-profile inmates like Carlos the Jackal and Manuel Noriega. Legal experts say it is well equipped to handle high-profile prisoners like Sarkozy.

Reactions to the ruling were divided across France. Right-wing politicians expressed support, calling the verdict too harsh and rushed. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen warned of a trend in immediate sentences for political figures. On the other hand, left-leaning leaders praised the court’s independence and bravery. Citizens on the streets were also split, with some applauding accountability and others accusing the system of targeting politicians unfairly.