Sarkozy Released From Prison Pending Appeal in Libya Funding Case

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been ordered released from prison pending the outcome of his appeal in a case involving alleged illegal campaign funding from Libya.

A Paris judge issued the order on Monday after prosecutors supported his request for release. Sarkozy, 70, had spent 20 days in La Santé prison following his conviction in September for criminal conspiracy over alleged efforts to obtain campaign financing from the regime of former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. He was sentenced to five years in prison.

His legal team immediately appealed the conviction, prompting a review of whether he should remain in custody while the appeal is underway. The appeal hearing is scheduled for March.

Under French law, an individual appealing a conviction is presumed innocent and can only be detained if authorities determine that their release could jeopardize evidence, lead to witness interference, or pose a flight or reoffending risk. The court ruled that Sarkozy could be placed under judicial supervision instead.

During Monday’s hearing, Sarkozy participated via video link from prison and described his detention as difficult. He also thanked prison staff for their treatment.

Sarkozy entered custody on October 21, becoming the first former head of a European Union country to be jailed following a criminal conviction. He has previously faced multiple legal challenges, including a prior graft conviction served under house arrest.

The case at the center of the current appeal alleges that Sarkozy’s associates reached an agreement with Libyan officials in 2005 to provide financial support for his 2007 presidential campaign. The court did not conclude that funds were directly received or used, but found that a conspiracy had been formed to secure them.

Sarkozy denies all wrongdoing.