In a historic moment for French politics, former President Nicolas Sarkozy has officially begun serving a five-year prison sentence.
After being convicted of criminal conspiracy in connection with the alleged illegal financing of his 2007 presidential campaign using funds from the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi.
Sarkozy, who served as France’s president from 2007 to 2012, reported to La Santé Prison in Paris on October 21, 2025, marking the first time in modern French history that a former head of state has started a prison term.
French courts found that Sarkozy and his associates conspired to solicit and conceal foreign campaign financing from Libya — a violation of national campaign laws.
Despite this, Sarkozy has consistently denied wrongdoing, calling the charges politically motivated and vowing to appeal the conviction.
The case underscores France’s growing resolve to hold even its most powerful leaders accountable under the law.
Sarkozy’s imprisonment sends a strong message on transparency, integrity, and political responsibility, not just within France but across democratic systems worldwide.
Read the full story here: AP News – “France’s former President Sarkozy will begin serving a 5-year prison sentence Tuesday”