Nicolas Sarkozy Begins Historic Incarceration at La Santé Prison Following Libyan Affair Conviction
Former President Nicolas Sarkozy began serving his sentence at La Santé prison on October 21, 2025, following his conviction for association of malfaiteurs in the Libyan affair trial, marking an unprecedented incarceration in France's history.
- • Nicolas Sarkozy began incarceration at La Santé prison on October 21, 2025.
- • He was convicted for association de malfaiteurs related to the Libyan trial.
- • Supporters expressed strong feelings of injustice at the judicial process.
- • This is the first time a former French president has been imprisoned, marking an unprecedented event.
Key details
On Tuesday morning, October 21, 2025, former French President Nicolas Sarkozy arrived at La Santé prison in Paris to begin serving his sentence following his conviction in the Libyan affair trial. Sarkozy was sentenced for "association de malfaiteurs," a charge relating to corruption linked to Libyan financing. This incarceration marks an unprecedented event in the history of the French Republic, as it is the first time a former president has been imprisoned.
As Sarkozy left his home en route to prison, he was warmly greeted by supporters who gathered to show solidarity despite strong feelings of injustice expressed among his base. Critics of the justice system claim the process has been unfair, though judicial authorities maintain that the law applies equally to all. Eric Alt, a magistrate and vice-president of the anti-corruption organization Anticor, provided expert commentary underscoring the significance and ramifications of this moment.
This development concludes a controversial chapter in Sarkozy's legal troubles stemming from allegations of illegal campaign financing linked to Libya during his presidency. His entry into La Santé prison symbolizes a milestone in French political and judicial history, emphasizing accountability at the highest levels of government.