Lawyers for former French President Nicolas Sarkozy called for his acquittal at the conclusion of his appeal trial in Paris, which centers on allegations of illegal Libyan financing during his 2007 presidential campaign. Speaking to the court, defense attorney Tristan Gautier argued that Sarkozy is innocent and should be cleared of all charges. His colleague Christophe Ingrain described the prosecution’s case as based on hypotheses rather than solid evidence, asserting that Sarkozy did not engage in criminal activity.

Sarkozy, who led France from 2007 to 2012, listened attentively with his arms crossed during the closing arguments presented by his legal team. The court is expected to deliver its verdict at a later date.

The trial stems from accusations that Sarkozy, along with associates, sought financial support from the regime of the late Libyan leader Moamer Gaddafi for his presidential campaign. While the court previously ruled there was no definitive proof that Sarkozy’s campaign actually received Libyan funds, it found that efforts were made to obtain such money. In the initial trial, Sarkozy was convicted of membership in a criminal organization and sentenced to five years in prison, a landmark decision in recent French legal history. He served a short jail term following the conviction and remained under electronic monitoring during the appeal process.

The prosecution has reiterated its position in the appeal, accusing Sarkozy of belonging to a criminal association and accepting illegal campaign funding. Additionally, prosecutors allege he benefited from the misappropriation of public funds. They have called for a prison sentence of seven years.

This is one of several legal challenges Sarkozy has faced in recent years. Prior to this case, he was convicted and sentenced to house arrest with an electronic monitor for charges related to corruption and influence peddling, which he has consistently denied. In a separate proceeding, he was found guilty of illegal campaign financing for his unsuccessful 2012 presidential bid, resulting in another period of monitoring.

Since his 2012 electoral defeat to François Hollande, Sarkozy has remained a prominent figure within France’s conservative political landscape. The outcome of this appeal trial will have significant implications for his legal and political standing.