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Paris, France — Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been granted release from prison after a Paris court ruled on Monday that he could remain free while appealing his conviction for criminal conspiracy. The decision follows his September sentencing linked to alleged illegal financing of his 2007 presidential campaign with funds from Libya, in exchange for political and diplomatic favors.
According to French broadcaster BFMTV, the court’s ruling allows Sarkozy to leave prison under strict judicial supervision. Prosecutors had requested his release, but with specific restrictions, including limits on his personal and professional communications during the ongoing appeal process.
Sarkozy, who served as France’s president from 2007 to 2012, was convicted earlier this year for allegedly accepting millions of euros from the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi to fund his campaign. The conviction reignited a long-standing controversy surrounding his political legacy and the murky connections between European leaders and Libya’s former regime.
Addressing the court through videolink, Sarkozy admitted that his short stay in prison had been “very hard,” describing the experience as emotionally and physically draining. Despite maintaining his innocence, he now faces an uphill legal battle to clear his name as he continues to deny all charges.
As part of his conditional release, the court imposed strict measures. Sarkozy is forbidden from contacting anyone involved in the case, including key witnesses and co-defendants. Notably, he is also barred from communicating with current French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin, who faced criticism last month for visiting Sarkozy during his detention.
The former president’s appeal will determine whether his conviction and prison sentence stand. For now, Sarkozy’s release has sparked mixed reactions across France — with his supporters celebrating the decision as a victory for justice, while critics argue it highlights a double standard in how political elites are treated.
The court has not yet announced the date for Sarkozy’s appeal hearing, but legal experts say it could take several months before a final ruling is reached.