Nicolas Sarkozy Announces Release of Prison Memoir Amid Ongoing Legal Battle

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy announced on November 21 that his book, 'Le Journal d’un prisonnier', will be published on December 10 by Fayard, a publishing house controlled by Vincent Bolloré. The memoir reflects on his recent incarceration experience, which was notably the first time a former French president was imprisoned. At 70 years old, Sarkozy served three weeks at Santé prison following a September 25 conviction involving illicit financing from Muammar Gaddafi’s Libya during his 2007 presidential campaign. He was sentenced to five years in prison and fined €100,000 for conspiracy and association with criminals.

Sarkozy shared on social media his reflections on life in prison, describing a paradoxical environment that was silent yet filled with constant noise, emphasizing how his inner life strengthened despite the harsh conditions. The Paris Court of Appeal released him on November 10 under judicial supervision, ruling he posed no flight risk but underscored the "exceptional gravity" of his offenses. Sarkozy has consistently claimed innocence and argued his imprisonment was motivated by "hatred." His appeal trial is scheduled from March 16 to June 3, 2025.

This announcement comes eleven days after his release and marks a significant personal and political moment for Sarkozy as he confronts his legal challenges and public scrutiny. The book is expected to shed light on his perspective during this unprecedented episode for a former head of state in France, generating further debate within French political circles.