Rémy Heitz, the Attorney General of the Court of Cassation, expressed concerns over the judicial independence in light of former French President Nicolas Sarkozy’s incarceration. He appeared on El-Balad’s morning segment on October 21, 2025, to address the potential ramifications of Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin’s planned visit to Sarkozy in prison.
Sarkozy’s Imprisonment: Legal Concerns Mount
Nicolas Sarkozy is currently serving a five-year prison sentence, following a conviction for complicity in illegal financing of his 2007 presidential campaign through Libyan funds. This significant legal event marks the first time a former President of France has faced incarceration in the history of the Fifth Republic. He was sentenced on September 25, 2025, and is being held at the Santé Prison in Paris.
Judicial Independence at Risk
During the interview, Heitz cautioned that Darmanin’s visit could undermine the seriousness of the judicial process. He noted that such visits might be interpreted by the public and the judiciary as an attempt to obstruct the process. “It is crucial that this matter is resolved without external pressures,” Heitz emphasized.
- Date of Sarkozy’s conviction: September 25, 2025
- Duration of sentence: Five years
- Location of incarceration: Santé Prison, Paris
- Key issue: Potential threats to judicial independence and process integrity
Call for Judicial Serenity
Heitz reiterated the importance of a fair trial, free from external influences. He pointed out that the legal proceedings around Sarkozy’s case have been marred by intense public scrutiny and threats against judges. Recently, French President Emmanuel Macron condemned these threats as “unacceptable.”
Heitz refrained from commenting on Macron’s meeting with Sarkozy just before his imprisonment but reaffirmed the necessity of ensuring a calm environment for future court hearings. “All discussions surrounding this case must occur in a tranquil atmosphere,” he stated.
As Sarkozy appeals his conviction, the legal landscape surrounding his case remains highly charged. All eyes are on the upcoming hearings, which are expected to take place soon, following Sarkozy’s request for temporary release.
