Nicolas Sarkozy Faces Trial Over Alleged Gaddafi Campaign Funding

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has begun a trial in Paris, accused of accepting millions in illicit funds from the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi to support his 2007 election campaign. Prosecutors allege that Sarkozy promised to aid Gaddafi in improving his image with Western nations in return for the financial backing.

Sarkozy, who served as president from 2007 to 2012, has consistently denied these allegations, claiming that they are part of a plot against him. The investigation initiated in 2013 was sparked by accusations from Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, the late leader's son, who alleged that Sarkozy received substantial financial support for his campaign.

Additional testimony from Lebanese businessman Ziad Takieddine suggested that Sarkozy's campaign was significantly funded by Gaddafi, with claims of continued payments even after Sarkozy assumed the presidency. Sarkozy is not alone, facing trial alongside twelve others implicated in the case, all of whom deny the charges.

Adding to the controversy, Sarkozy's wife, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, was charged last year with allegations of hiding evidence and aiding in fraud, to which she also claims innocence. Since leaving office, Sarkozy has faced numerous criminal investigations, including a recent conviction related to campaign overspending in 2012.

The trial, expected to last three months, will determine if Sarkozy will face up to ten years in prison if found guilty. Currently, due to the unresolved details of his sentencing from a previous case, Sarkozy appeared in court without wearing an electronic tag, though it is anticipated that he may wear one during this ongoing process.