A Former Leader's Fall: Sarkozy's Journey to Prison
A Historic Moment in French Politics
Nicolas Sarkozy, the former French president, has been imprisoned, marking a significant moment in French history as the first post-World War II leader to face incarceration. The charges? Conspiring to secure funds from the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi for his 2007 election campaign. Now 70, Sarkozy maintains his innocence, asserting he never personally received or used the funds.
Media Frenzy and Emotional Farewell
The media frenzy was intense, with over 500 global channels broadcasting his journey to La Santé prison in Paris. In France, all major broadcasters covered the event live. The scene was emotional as Sarkozy, hand in hand with his wife Carla Bruni, left their Parisian home. Bruni, a former model and singer, blew kisses to supporters gathered outside.
A Spectacle Through Paris
Sarkozy's car ride through Paris, past the National Assembly, was a spectacle. Dozens of cameramen on bikes followed his vehicle. Meanwhile, Sarkozy took to social media to protest his innocence, calling the affair a "travesty" and the case "illegal."
Life Behind Bars
Life in prison for Sarkozy will be solitary. His cell, around 11 square meters, comes with basic amenities like a desk, fridge, and TV. No cell phone, though. Before his incarceration, Sarkozy shared his reading list with the press: books on Jesus and Alexandre Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo," a story about wrongful imprisonment. He also plans to write a book about his prison experiences.
La Santé Prison: A Notable History
La Santé prison, near Montmartre, has housed notable figures like rogue trader Jérôme Kerviel and gangster Jacques Mesrine. Sarkozy's imprisonment has sparked divided opinions in France. Some media outlets support him, while others criticize his actions and the media frenzy around his case.
Legal Battle and Potential Release
Sarkozy's lawyer has filed for his release, but it might take up to two months for a decision. If approved, Sarkozy could walk free the next day. Until then, he's expected to spend at least a month in jail.