UPDATE: Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy is set to begin serving a five-year prison sentence today, October 17, 2023, at La Santé prison in Paris. This marks a historic moment as Sarkozy becomes the first ex-French president to be imprisoned in modern history, following his conviction for criminal conspiracy linked to his 2007 election campaign financing with funds from Libya.
Despite maintaining his innocence, Sarkozy’s sentence comes as a result of a Paris court ruling that emphasized the “seriousness of the disruption to public order caused by the offense.” He was ordered to start serving his time immediately, without waiting for his appeal to be heard.
Sarkozy is expected to be admitted to the notorious prison that has housed high-profile inmates since its opening in 1867. The prison’s past includes infamous figures like Alfred Dreyfus, who was wrongfully convicted of treason, and the militant known as Carlos the Jackal.
As he prepares for imprisonment, Sarkozy told Le Figaro that he anticipates being placed in solitary confinement or potentially in the prison’s “VIP section” for vulnerable inmates. He has packed a bag with clothing and 10 family photos along with three books, including a two-volume edition of “The Count of Monte Cristo”, a tale of revenge and escape, which he may find resonant during his time behind bars.
The former president expressed defiance, stating, “I’m not afraid of prison. I’ll hold my head high, including in front of the doors of La Santé.” He vowed to continue fighting his conviction, underscoring the emotional stakes of this unprecedented situation.
In a show of support, Sarkozy’s son, Louis Sarkozy, has called for a rally today in their upscale Paris neighborhood, as his father prepares to face the reality of incarceration.
The implications of Sarkozy’s imprisonment extend beyond personal consequences; they reflect a significant moment in French political history, raising questions about accountability and the legal system’s treatment of public figures. As the news unfolds, citizens and political analysts alike are watching closely to see how this landmark case will influence future political landscapes in France and beyond.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
