The rise and fall of Nicolas Sarkozy: Former French president jailed in historic first

WorldPolitics
22 Oct 2025 • 2:48 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

image is not available

Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy begun serving a prison sentence in Paris on Tuesday (21 October) – the first time a leader of the French Fifth Republic has been jailed.

The 70-year-old, who swept to power in 2007 with a reputation for glamour and ruthless ambition, was convicted last month for his role in a conspiracy to illegally raise campaign funds from Libya.

Sarkozy has consistently denied wrongdoing, calling the case politically motivated, and has lodged an appeal.

He will be held in a secure isolation unit at La Santé prison, with a small cell, private shower, and paid access to television.

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved