Former French President seeks release from prison pending appeal

The former French President is currently seeking to be released from prison pending his appeal against a five-year sentence for criminal conspiracy.

During the court proceedings, the former leader’s defense argued that the conditions of his confinement have caused significant suffering and posed security risks.

Isolation and Security Concerns

The former President’s lawyer stated that being held in isolation has been extremely difficult for the strong, robust, and courageous individual, causing him great suffering.

Another lawyer, who visited him daily, argued that the former President would be safer out of prison than inside. The defense cited reports of death threats, screaming heard at night, and the urgent intervention in a neighboring cell when another prisoner self-harmed.

The former President has been held in solitary confinement for his own security, occupying an individual cell of approximately nine square meters, complete with his own shower and toilet. Two bodyguards are occupying a neighboring cell to ensure his safety.

Reports also indicated the former leader found life in prison "gruelling" and "a nightmare." Due to personal concerns, a news weekly reported that he had been eating only yogurt in prison, fearing his food might have been tampered with. He was reportedly offered the facilities to cook for himself but declined the offer.