Nicolas Sarkozy prison preparation
Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy is preparing to serve a five-year prison sentence following his conviction for criminal conspiracy related to alleged secret funding from Libya’s former leader Muammar Gaddafi in his successful 2007 presidential campaign.
The conviction was handed down by a Paris criminal court on September 25, 2025, which found Sarkozy guilty of “criminal association” in the scheme. May of the more serious charges—such as passive corruption and illegal campaign financing—were dismissed by the court. He was also fined €100,000 and handed a five-year ban from holding public office.
Despite his appeal, the sentence is to take effect immediately. Prosecutors have informed him of his obligation to report to prison. According to official scheduling, he is due to begin his term on October 21, 2025, at the La Santé Prison in Paris.
In a recent interview, Sarkozy declared he was “not afraid” of prison and said he has already packed his bags for the term ahead. He insisted he will not ask for special treatment and intends to “hold his head high” when entering custody. He also revealed his plan to write a book while incarcerated.
The case marks a historic moment: Sarkozy will become the first former president of modern France to serve a prison term. Previously, while he faced legal penalties, he had avoided time behind bars.
The court’s ruling rested on the finding that from 2005 to 2007, while he was Interior Minister and preparing to run for the presidency, سوری utilised his office to facilitate this alleged pact with Libya. Although the court did not conclude that he personally received the funds, it deemed the actions of his associates and his political role to amount to a conspiracy of “exceptional gravity” that undermined public trust.
While incarcerated, Sarkozy’s conditions will reflect his high-profile status. Reports indicate he may be held in a dedicated wing for prominent inmates in La Santé, in an isolated or “VIP” section rather than the general population, given security and logistical concerns.
The implications are far-reaching. The verdict sends a strong message about accountability at the highest levels of governance. At the same time, supporters of Sarkozy argue the case is politically motivated and that he should be presumed innocent until all appeals are exhausted. The legal process is still ongoing.
