Historic Trial Ahead: Nicolas Sarkozy and 12 Others Accused of Using Libyan Public Funds in French Elections

Landmark Investigation into Alleged Corruption

After a decade-long investigation, a groundbreaking trial is scheduled to begin in France, focusing on former President Nicolas Sarkozy and twelve other suspects over allegations of using Libyan public funds for his 2007 presidential campaign.

• Sherpa, an anti-corruption and human rights organization, welcomed this significant step towards transparency and accountability
• Launched investigation in 2011, raising concerns about economic ties between France and Libya under Muammar Gadhafi’s rule
• First shed light on controversial business activities involving Amesys, a French IT firm

Origins of Gaddafi Clan’s Assets in France

Sherpa submitted a complaint to Transparency International in 2011, investigating the origins of the Gaddafi clan’s assets in France.

Alleged Illicit Campaign Financing

Mediapart, a French investigative journal, uncovered the alleged intricacies of how Sarkozy received millions in illegal campaign financing from the Libyan leader’s government in 2012.

Defendants and Corruption Practices

Key figures include former ministers and campaign directors:

• Nicolas Sarkozy, former president
• Claude Guéant, former minister and campaign director
• Éric Woerth
• Brice Hortefeux, former interior minister

Sherpa underscores the importance of this precedent-setting trial, exposing widespread corruption practices amongst French officials and their dealings with oppressive regimes.

Contact Sherpa for More Information

With this momentous occasion, Sherpa encourages interested parties to contact them at presse@asso-sherpa.org for more information.