Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy is set to face another legal battle as his trial on charges of illegal campaign financing begins. The case, involving allegations of financial misconduct during Sarkozy’s 2007 presidential campaign, has drawn significant public and legal attention.
Two of Sarkozy’s key allies, former Minister Brice Hortefeux and his then-campaign finance head Eric Woerth, testified before judges on Thursday, maintaining their innocence. Sarkozy’s former aide, Claude Gueant, also denied any wrongdoing.
This trial adds to the former president’s mounting legal troubles, including a prior conviction for corruption and influence peddling, which saw him sentenced to a year of house arrest with an electronic bracelet.
If convicted in this latest case, Sarkozy could face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of 375,000 euros ($690,000). The proceedings are expected to run until April 10.
