Former French President Sarkozy Sentenced to Five Years in Prison

A French court has found former President Nicolas Sarkozy guilty of "criminal conspiracy" and sentenced him to five years in prison with a suspended arrest. The case revolves around illegal financing of his 2007 presidential campaign.

The investigation revealed links to former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. Franco-Lebanese businessman Ziad Takieddine, a key witness for the prosecution, testified that in 2006–2007 he delivered suitcases with cash amounting to five million euros to Sarkozy and his associate Claude Guéant.

However, Takieddine later withdrew his testimony and fled to Lebanon. Earlier this week, news of his death added further resonance to the case.

In addition to charges of "criminal conspiracy," Sarkozy faced accusations of embezzlement of public funds and passive corruption, for which the court acquitted him.

Thus, the former French president remains at the center of one of the most high-profile political and legal cases of recent years. The verdict may still be appealed, but the fact of the conviction confirms that the judiciary considers the case proven.