Share this @internewscast.com
Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy has been freed after a Paris court ruled he could be released while he appeals against his conviction for conspiring to raise funds from Libya.
Sarkozy was sent to prison on 21 October after he was found guilty in September of criminal conspiracy over efforts by close aides to procure funds for his 2007 presidential bid from late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi.
The former conservative leader, who was president from 2007 to 2012, told the court that being in jail had been tough.

Upon his return home on Monday, he took to X to express that “truth will eventually triumph,” underscoring a life lesson he holds dear.

He mentioned that his attention would now shift to the appeals process, noting that “the conclusion to this narrative is yet to be determined.”

Sarkozy’s five-year prison sentence was implemented without delay, due to what judges described in September as the “exceptional gravity” of his offense. His confinement at La Sante prison in Paris marked a dramatic downfall for the former French president.

The court said he did not represent a flight risk and therefore did not have to remain in prison until his appeal.
His release was based on specific criteria, such as whether there was a risk he could flee, and is no indication of whether his appeal is likely to succeed.
“Vive la liberte” (Long live freedom), Sarkozy’s youngest son, Louis, posted on his X account with a childhood photo of himself smiling alongside his father.

Tune in to explore

But the public prosecutor on Monday recommended that Sarkozy be freed pending his appeal of the guilty verdict.

The court agreed to release him under judicial supervision, which includes a ban on leaving France and a ban on talking to any justice ministry official.

Prison is draining, Sarkozy says

Sarkozy has consistently denied wrongdoing, calling himself a victim of revenge and hatred. He did not attend Monday’s hearing in person but was taking part via video link from prison.
He told the court he would respect any demand from the judiciary if he were freed.
“I’m French, sir. I love my country. I’m fighting for the truth to prevail. I will comply with all the obligations imposed on me, as I always have,” he said.

Speaking of being in jail, he added: “It’s tough. Really tough — as it must be for any detainee. I’d even say it’s draining.”

Sarkozy has faced several legal battles since leaving office.
Last year, France’s highest court upheld a conviction for corruption and influence peddling, ordering him to wear an electronic tag for a year, a first for a former French head of state. The tag has now been removed.
Also last year, an appeals court confirmed a separate conviction for illegal campaign financing over his failed re-election bid in 2012. A final ruling from France’s highest court is expected on that case this month.
Sarkozy is also under formal investigation in another case for being an accessory to witness tampering.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Le Constellation bar is split across two floors, and the fire appears to have started in the basement bar just before 1:30 a.m. on New Year's Day. Authorities said it quickly turned into a flashover, when the heat becomes so intense, everything inside a room ignites almost simultaneously.

Unraveling the Tragic Events of the Swiss Bar Incident: What Really Happened?

As young partygoers rang in the New Year at a packed bar…

Israel Offers Support to Australian Police in Anti-Terrorism Efforts

Israel said it is willing to train Australian police in countering terrorism…

Government Expresses Disappointment Over China’s Newly Imposed Beef Import Tariffs

Trade Minister Don Farrell has said the government is “disappointed” with China’s…
Upon arrival, a male was located with life-threatening injuries.

Intense Search Launched Following Fatal Shooting in Melbourne’s Inner North

In the wake of a tragic shooting incident in Melbourne’s inner north,…

How Usman Khawaja’s Impact Extends Beyond Cricket: Inspiring Change and Diversity

The 39-year-old will farewell fans at the Sydney Cricket Ground from Sunday,…
Mark Kempster has lost over $100,000, his 20s and nearly his family to an online betting addiction, which started when he was playing AFL at age 15.

Teenagers in Australia Fall Victim to Costly Trend: The Rise of ‘Pokies Influencers

Mark Kempster, who began gambling during his teenage years while playing Australian…

Exploring the Future of Australian Luxury Travel: Top Destinations and Estimated Costs for 2026

A new report reveals the countries that Australian luxury travellers are eyeing…
Tesla

Tesla Dethroned: Discover the New Leader in the Electric Vehicle Revolution

Tesla lost its crown as the world’s bestselling electric vehicle maker on…
An extremely hot air mass will spread across the country this week, pushing temperatures towards the mid-to-high 40s in parts of Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales.

Heatwave Alert: Four States Brace for Scorching Temperatures Above 40°C Next Week

Multiple states as set to swelter next week as a hot air…
Why is the US attacking Venezuela?

What’s Driving the US-Venezuela Tensions? Uncover the Reasons Behind the Conflict

In a startling development, U.S. President Donald Trump declared that Venezuelan President…
Comic icons, mystery stars, film legends enter public domain in 2026

Beloved Comic Characters and Classic Film Icons to Enter Public Domain in 2026

In an exciting development for classic cartoon and comic enthusiasts, beloved characters…
18-year-old Christian Sturvidant.

Teen Arrested in Foiled ISIS-Inspired New Year’s Eve Attack Plot: A Closer Look

After about a year of planning, an 18-year-old was arrested on New…