Nicolas Sarkozy Released from Prison, Under Judicial Supervision

Paris, France – Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy was released from La Santé prison on November 10, after serving twenty days in provisional detention. The Paris Court of Appeal placed him under judicial supervision, following the prosecutor’s recommendations.

The court has prohibited Sarkozy from contacting the Minister of Justice, Gérald Darmanin, as their meeting previously drew criticism from legal professionals. Additionally, he cannot communicate with other defendants, members of the justice ministry, or leave the country.

During the hearing for his release, Sarkozy described his imprisonment as “very hard,” adding it is challenging for any inmate. He expressed gratitude to prison staff for their humanity, calling his experience a nightmare but bearable thanks to their support. He remarked he never imagined he would know prison life at 70 years old.

Sarkozy was sentenced to five years in prison on September 25 for criminal conspiracy related to illegal campaign financing from Libya. He has appealed the verdict.

His incarceration marks a historic moment for France, as it is the first time a former president has been imprisoned. This situation has sparked intense debate and concern within the European Union, where no former head of state has faced imprisonment until now.

Many were shocked not just by the sentence but by the immediate prison mandate, which cannot be appealed. Judges justified this by citing the “exceptional gravity” of the offenses. Sarkozy’s defense team believes it stems from “hatred” against him. They filed for his release immediately after his detention.

The appellate judges evaluated his case differently, focusing on provisional detention criteria. An individual can remain in custody only if it is the “only means” to protect evidence, prevent pressure or collusion, avoid flight, or ensure safety.

While in prison, Sarkozy was isolated, with two security officers stationed nearby due to the risks concerning his status, according to Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez. He met with Gérald Darmanin at the end of October, which stirred further controversy and drew criticism from legal professionals.

The Attorney General of France, Rémy Heitz, expressed concerns about the potential for interference with judicial independence before Sarkozy’s appeal trial.

Sarkozy’s case is one of three involving defendants sentenced to immediate incarceration. The court deemed one, aged 81, as presenting “particularly weak” guarantees against flight risk after a six-year prison sentence was imposed.

The upcoming trial regarding the Libyan financing is anticipated to begin in March, though official dates have yet to be announced.