Sarkozy Shares Insights from 20 Days in Prison in New Memoir

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has published a memoir detailing his brief incarceration, titled Le Journal d’un Prisonnier (The Diary of a Prisoner). Released just three weeks after its completion, the book recounts his experiences during the 20 days he spent in solitary confinement at the Parisian prison of Santé.

In his memoir, Sarkozy describes his cell, which measured 12 square meters and was equipped with a bed, writing desk, refrigerator, shower, and television. Despite having a window, the view was obstructed by a large plastic panel placed outside. The former president noted, “It was clean and bright enough. If it weren’t for the reinforced door with a peephole for guards to watch through, one might think they were in a two-star hotel.”

Sarkozy, who was sentenced to five years in prison for his involvement in a conspiracy to finance his electoral campaign, was released in November 2023 after serving a fraction of his sentence. His incarceration followed a court ruling in October that found him guilty of criminal conspiracy, specifically for allowing subordinates to attempt to secure funding from Libyan Colonel Muammar Gaddafi for his campaign two decades earlier.

The memoir spans 216 pages and provides a glimpse into his daily life behind bars. Sarkozy revealed that he was required to remain in his cell for 23 out of 24 hours each day, with contact restricted to prison staff. He chose not to take advantage of the daily outdoor exercise, describing the area as “more like a cage than a place to walk.” Instead, he exercised on a treadmill in a small sports room, which he referred to as a “true oasis” in his situation.

Sarkozy’s nights were often disrupted by a neighbor who sang songs from the film The Lion King and tapped a spoon against the bars. Despite the circumstances, he expressed appreciation for the kindness and respect shown to him by prison guards, stating, “Each of them addressed me as President.”

During his time in prison, Sarkozy managed to cover the walls of his cell with letters and postcards from supporters expressing their solidarity. The former president firmly denies any wrongdoing and claims to be a victim of a politically motivated faction within the French judicial system.

In a notable shift in his political stance, Sarkozy criticized current French President Emmanuel Macron, with whom he previously had a close relationship. He stated that he has “turned the page” but does not oppose Macron’s policies or personality systematically. Sarkozy expressed disappointment that Macron never had the “courage” to personally reach out to him regarding his expulsion from the Legion of Honor.

As Sarkozy navigates this turbulent chapter of his life, his memoir offers a unique perspective on the trials he faced, providing insights into his character and his views on contemporary French politics.