France's highest court upheld a corruption verdict against former president Nicolas Sarkozy on Wednesday, ordering him to wear an electronic tag for a year, marking a historic first for a former French head of state.
The Court of Cassation confirmed the 2021 ruling, which found Sarkozy guilty of corruption and influence peddling.
The court determined that Sarkozy and his former lawyer, Thierry Herzog, had formed a "corruption pact" with judge Gilbert Azibert to obtain information about a legal investigation.
In the original verdict, Sarkozy was sentenced to a three-year jail term, with two years suspended and the remaining year to be served under home detention with an electronic tag. An appeals court had upheld this decision last year.
Sarkozy's lawyer, Patrice Spinosi, stated that the former president would comply with the terms of the conviction but would take the case to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) within weeks. He added that Sarkozy's appeal to the Strasbourg-based ECHR would not delay the enforcement of Wednesday's ruling.
Spinosi expressed regret over the situation, describing it as a "sad day" when a former president had to approach European judges to challenge a state he once led.
Sarkozy, 69, has consistently denied the charges, maintaining his innocence throughout the legal proceedings. His lawyer reaffirmed his determination to "not give up this fight".
Sarkozy, who served as president from 2007 to 2012, has faced multiple legal issues since leaving office.
The "Bismuth" case adds to his troubles, which include allegations of campaign financing overspending and the suspected Libyan financing of his 2007 presidential campaign.
Despite his legal challenges, Sarkozy remains an influential figure in French politics, particularly among right-wing circles. He reportedly retains close ties with President Emmanuel Macron, advising him on political matters.
Earlier this month, Sarkozy met Macron at the Elysee to dissuade him from appointing centrist Francois Bayrou as prime minister. Macron ultimately proceeded with the appointment despite Sarkozy's opposition.
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