French court upholds Sarkozy’s corruption conviction, former president faces prison

December 19, 2024 – The French Supreme Court has upheld the conviction of former president Nicolas Sarkozy for corruption and influence peddling, a landmark decision that could see him serve a prison sentence.

Sarkozy, 69, was found guilty of attempting to bribe a judge during his time in office, in a bid to obtain confidential information about a legal case. The Court of Appeal reaffirmed the ruling in 2023, and the Supreme Court’s decision on Wednesday confirmed that the sentences are final.

In line with French law, Sarkozy may seek to serve his sentence at home, wearing an electronic bracelet, as the conviction carries a sentence of two years or less. This provision is commonly applied in cases of shorter prison terms.

Sarkozy was convicted in 2021 by the Paris court for corruption and influence peddling. The case stemmed from an attempt to bribe a judge in exchange for details on an investigation linked to his legal troubles.

Despite the ruling, Sarkozy has shown no intention of backing down. In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), he vowed to "take full responsibility" and face all consequences, but also emphasized his belief in his innocence. He further confirmed his plans to take the matter to the European Court of Human Rights, hoping for a reversal of his conviction.

“This is not just about my case; this is about the deep injustice I believe has been done to me,” Sarkozy stated, asserting his resolve to continue the legal fight.

The decision marks a historic moment in France, as Sarkozy becomes the first former president in modern history to be convicted and sentenced to prison for actions during his presidency. His predecessor, Jacques Chirac, was also convicted in 2011 for embezzling public funds, but he received a suspended sentence.

Sarkozy, who served as president from 2007 to 2012, has remained an influential figure in French politics despite stepping back from public life in 2017. He was present at the reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral earlier this month, demonstrating his ongoing role in the conservative political sphere.