On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, former French President Nicolas Sarkozy entered La Santé Prison in Paris to begin a five-year sentence for criminal conspiracy, marking a historic moment in French politics as he becomes the first former leader of modern France to serve time behind bars. The prison arrival was heavily monitored, with Sarkozy traveling in a vehicle surrounded by a fleet of police motorbikes and cars.
Sarkozy, who served as president from 2007 to 2012, was convicted for his involvement in a scheme to finance his 2007 presidential campaign with illegal funds from the late Libyan dictator Moamer Gaddafi in exchange for diplomatic favors. His conviction was handed down at the end of September, and despite filing an appeal, the court ordered the immediate execution of his sentence.
Upon leaving his home, Sarkozy waved to supporters and addressed the nation with a message of defiance, asserting his innocence. “It’s not a former president of the Republic being locked up this morning, it’s an innocent man,” he stated. He expressed sorrow for France, referring to the situation as an expression of “vengeance” that has escalated to “unprecedented levels of hatred.” He vowed to continue denouncing what he termed a “judicial scandal.”
Sarkozy, now 70 years old, is expected to spend his time in either solitary confinement or in the prison’s “VIP wing,” typically reserved for inmates whose safety could be compromised among the general population. This includes politicians, former police officers, and individuals associated with extremist groups. Under French law, inmates aged 70 and older can apply for conditional release, allowing them to serve part of their sentence outside prison under specific conditions.
In a notable prelude to his imprisonment, Sarkozy met with current President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace just days prior. Following his incarceration, Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin has indicated plans to visit Sarkozy in prison, highlighting the ongoing political implications of this unprecedented legal situation.
The case has reignited discussions about political corruption and accountability in France, drawing public and media attention as the country grapples with the implications of a former president facing criminal charges. As Sarkozy begins his sentence, the political landscape remains watchful of the developments surrounding his appeal and the broader ramifications for French governance.
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