Bribery allegations: Lighter sentence for Sarkozy possible on appeal Increased carbon monoxide poisoning in Ukraine +++ New controversial media law

Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy may hope for a lighter sentence in his appeal against bribery charges. The public prosecutor’s office only demanded a three-year conditional sentence for him on Tuesday, broadcaster France Info and other French media unanimously report. At first instance, a court had sentenced the former president to three years in prison, with only two probation and one at home under electronic surveillance.

Specifically, the case is about the fact that the former conservative president allegedly tried to obtain investigative secrets from the lawyer Gilbert Azibert in 2014 through his old lawyer Thierry Herzog in another affair. In return, Azibert would have received support in applying for a position in Monaco. Sarkozy denied the allegations. Herzog and Azibert were also convicted at first instance and are now back in court. The trial is scheduled for Friday.

Sarkozy’s sentence in March last year was historic. Never in the recent history of France has such a severe sentence been handed down to a former head of state.

Sarkozy was also sentenced to a year in prison in another trial last September for illegal campaign finance. He also appealed against this. He may also face a lawsuit. Justice has been investigating alleged payments by Libya for the 2007 election campaign for years. Sarkozy has also rejected all allegations here. The conservative politician was president of France from 2007 to 2012. (saw/sda/dpa)