Nicolas Sarkozy Seeks Prison Release Amid Libya Campaign Finance Case

A Paris court on Monday reviewed former French president Nicolas Sarkozy’s request for release from prison, less than three weeks after he began serving a five-year sentence for criminal conspiracy linked to illegal campaign financing from ex-Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. Prosecutors recommended Sarkozy be released under judicial supervision while awaiting appeal.

Sarkozy, who governed France from 2007 to 2012, was jailed on October 21 following his conviction in September for allegedly conspiring to raise funds from Libya for his successful 2007 election campaign. The sentence was enforced immediately due to the “extraordinary seriousness” of the crime, according to Judge Nathalie Gavarino.

Addressing the court via videolink, Sarkozy described his imprisonment as “gruelling,” acknowledging the challenges but also praising prison staff for making his time bearable. The former president denies any wrongdoing, calling the case a “plot” tied to Gaddafi.

French law treats detention before an appeal ruling as exceptional. The court must assess whether Sarkozy poses a flight risk, might influence witnesses, or could obstruct justice. If released, he could be placed under judicial supervision, potentially involving electronic monitoring, financial deposits, or regular check-ins with authorities.

Prosecutor Damien Brunet argued that the release request was reasonable, given that risks of collusion and pressure on witnesses could be mitigated under supervision. A decision was scheduled for 1:30 pm (1230 GMT) on Monday.

Sarkozy is the first former French head of state in modern times to serve prison time. Previously, he served a one-year term with an electronic tag following a separate corruption and influence-peddling conviction, which has now ended. Additionally, he faces ongoing investigations related to witness tampering in the Libya case and a final ruling on 2012 campaign finance violations expected this month.

The outcome of Monday’s hearing could see Sarkozy leave La Santé prison within hours, under strict monitoring, as France continues to navigate its unprecedented legal proceedings against a former president.