Sarkozy Faces Seven Years in Prison over Gaddafi Funding

Prosecutors have asked for a seven-year prison sentence for Nicolas Sarkozy. The former French president is appealing against his conviction in a case concerning alleged campaign financing by the Libyan regime of Muammar Gaddafi, France 24 reports.

According to the indictment, Sarkozy colluded with Gaddafi ahead of the 2007 presidential election, with Libya contributing to his campaign in exchange for help improving the Libyan dictator's international image. Sarkozy has long denied the accusations, calling them politically motivated.

A lower court found him guilty of criminal conspiracy last September but acquitted him of corruption and personally accepting illegal campaign funds. Sarkozy subsequently served 20 days in jail, becoming the first French president of the modern era to be imprisoned.

The appeal verdict is expected on 30 November. If convicted, Sarkozy faces up to ten years in prison.

(mja)