Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been released from jail pending an appeal trial over his conviction for conspiring to raise campaign funds from Libya. The Paris court granted Sarkozy’s release, citing that he does not pose a flight risk, and imposed strict judicial supervision, including a ban on leaving France and contacting other accused individuals or witnesses. Sarkozy, who was jailed on October 21, had served less than three weeks of his five-year sentence.
Sarkozy’s release comes after he described his imprisonment as a “nightmare” and “gruelling,” saying it was “tough, really tough” but prison staff had made it “bearable.” The prosecution had recommended his release, citing the risk of collusion and pressure on witnesses, and Sarkozy has pledged to comply with all obligations imposed on him.
The 70-year-old former president has faced several legal battles since leaving office in 2012 and has been convicted in two other cases. The appeals trial is scheduled for March, and Sarkozy’s release is conditional pending the outcome.
