Former French president sentenced to 5 years in prison for election plot with Libya's Gaddafi

A Paris court convicted Sarkozy for conspiring to finance his 2007 presidential campaign with Libyan funds. He received a five-year sentence, including one year under house arrest with an electronic bracelet, and a €100,000 fine. The court found Sarkozy’s aides, acting in his name, sought Libyan money.

Presiding judge Nathalie Gavarino stated the conspiracy aimed to prepare “corruption at the highest possible level,” undermining public trust. Sarkozy’s aides made multiple Tripoli visits from 2005-2007, when Gaddafi sought global legitimacy. No direct Sarkozy-Gaddafi deal was proven, but Libyan funds reached France in 2006.

Prosecutors alleged Sarkozy’s team used bank transfers, cash, and offshore accounts to funnel money, violating France’s strict campaign funding laws. Libya expected economic deals and diplomatic favors in return. Ziad Takieddine, a key intermediary, claimed he delivered millions in cash for Sarkozy’s campaign.

Sarkozy denied wrongdoing, arguing accusations came from Gaddafi’s allies seeking revenge after France’s role in NATO airstrikes that led to Gaddafi’s 2011 death. The court acquitted Sarkozy of direct corruption, finding no firm proof Libyan funds reached his campaign, but upheld the conspiracy charge.

This marks Sarkozy’s second conviction, following earlier charges of corruption and influence peddling. He’s barred from public office and stripped of the Legion of Honor. The ruling, unprecedented for a modern French president, exposes foreign influence in France’s 2007 election.