Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has appeared in court in Paris, facing accusations of accepting illicit campaign funds from the late Libyan leader, Colonel Muammar Gaddafi. The charges stem from claims that Gaddafi’s regime provided millions of euros in cash to support Sarkozy’s successful 2007 presidential campaign.
If found guilty, Sarkozy, who held office from 2007 to 2012, could face a prison sentence of up to ten years.
Twelve others, including some of Sarkozy’s former close associates, are also on trial. Prosecutors allege they conspired to orchestrate a clandestine arrangement with Gaddafi, funnelling funds into Sarkozy’s campaign in violation of French electoral laws.
Sarkozy has vehemently denied the allegations, dismissing them as baseless and politically motivated. He has labelled the case “an artificial construction” lacking credible evidence.
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The trial, which is set to run until April 10, adds to Sarkozy’s mounting legal troubles. The former president has already been convicted twice in separate cases since leaving office. Notably, he is awaiting the enforcement of a one-year prison sentence for influence peddling.
The proceedings have drawn significant attention, casting a long shadow over the legacy of one of France’s most prominent political figures.
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