France’s former president Nicolas Sarkozy has officially begun serving a five-year prison sentence after being convicted of criminal conspiracy linked to illegal campaign financing. The 70-year-old ex-leader arrived at La Santé Prison in Paris on Tuesday morning, marking a historic moment as the first former head of an EU state to be imprisoned.

Sarkozy’s Conviction and Charges

Sarkozy was found guilty of accepting millions of euros in illegal payments from the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi to fund his 2007 presidential campaign. The conviction, which came last month, labeled the acts as criminal conspiracy of exceptional gravity.

Despite the ruling, Sarkozy has consistently denied the charges. His legal team filed an immediate request for release as he entered the prison. On social media platform X, he stated:

“It is not a former president of the republic being jailed this morning, but an innocent man. Truth will prevail.”

Supporters Gather Outside Sarkozy’s Residence

Dozens of supporters and family members gathered outside his Paris home early Tuesday to show solidarity. Many held framed portraits of Sarkozy and waved French flags with inscriptions such as “Courage Nicolas, come back soon” and “True France with Nicolas.”

The crowd chanted “Free Nicolas” and sang the French national anthem, while neighbors observed from balconies. Flora Amanou, a supporter, said:

“This is truly a sad day for France and for democracy.”

Historical Context: Sarkozy First Since WWII to Be Jailed

Sarkozy becomes the first French president imprisoned since Philippe Petain, the World War II-era leader jailed for Nazi collaboration. This marks a significant precedent in European political history and highlights the ongoing crackdown on political corruption.

Life in La Santé Prison

Upon arrival, Sarkozy revealed he would be taking with him a biography of Jesus and a copy of The Count of Monte Cristo, a novel about an innocent man jailed unjustly who seeks revenge.

He is expected to stay in a nine-square-meter (95-square-foot) solitary confinement cell, a security measure designed to protect high-profile inmates. While in isolation, he is allowed one walk per day in a small yard and three visits per week. The duration of his imprisonment remains uncertain, pending the court’s review of his lawyers’ appeal for early release, which must be examined within two months.

Judicial Remarks

Presiding judge Nathalie Gavarino emphasized the severity of the offenses during sentencing. The decision to jail Sarkozy was made regardless of any appeal, citing the exceptional gravity of the crimes.

Implications for French Politics

Sarkozy’s imprisonment sends shockwaves through French politics, sparking debates about accountability, transparency, and the consequences of political corruption. Analysts suggest that this case could influence future electoral regulations and anti-corruption measures in France and across the European Union.