Paris court grants early release to former French President Sarkozy

A Paris court has approved a request for the early release of former French President Nicolas Sarkozy under judicial supervision, pending an appeal of last month’s verdict that found him guilty of criminal conspiracy for his alleged involvement in efforts by close aides to secure funds for his 2007 presidential bid from late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, French media reported on Monday.

Under the court’s decision, Sarkozy will remain under judicial supervision upon his release today, after spending 20 days behind bars.

The former President is prohibited from leaving the country and from having any contact with other individuals involved in his case. He is also barred from meeting officials from the French Ministry of Justice.

Sarkozy’s lawyer welcomed the ruling, calling it “a first step” and adding that the defence planed to appeal the conviction issued against the former French leader.