Ziad Takieddine Dies as Nicolas Sarkozy Faces Verdict in Libya Funding Case
Ziad Takieddine, a Franco-Lebanese businessman and key accuser of former French President Nicolas Sarkozy in the alleged Libyan funding of his 2007 presidential campaign, died on September 23, 2025, in Beirut. His death occurred just two days before the verdict in Sarkozy's trial.
Takieddine's Role in the Sarkozy Case
Takieddine, aged 75 at the time of his death, claimed he helped deliver up to five million euros ($6 million) in cash from late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi to Sarkozy and his chief of staff in 2006 and 2007. However, he retracted this statement in 2020, leading to accusations that Sarkozy and his allies had influenced him.
Sarkozy's Conviction and Sentencing
On Thursday, Nicolas Sarkozy was convicted of criminal conspiracy and sentenced to five years in prison, becoming France's first postwar leader to face incarceration. The court acquitted him of corruption and personally accepting illegal campaign financing but ordered him to be taken into custody at a later date, even if he appeals. He was also fined €100,000 and banned from holding public office.
Reactions and Implications
Sarkozy, accompanied by his wife Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, vowed to appeal the verdict, calling it "extremely serious for the rule of law." The presiding judge described the offences as being of "exceptional gravity" and "likely to undermine the confidence of citizens." While Sarkozy was acquitted of some charges, other defendants in the trial received sentences, including Alexandre Djouhri, Claude Gueant, and Brice Hortefeux. Eric Woerth, Sarkozy's 2007 campaign treasurer, was acquitted.
Background of the Libya Funding Allegations
Prosecutors argued that Sarkozy and his aides made a deal with Gaddafi in 2005 to illegally fund Sarkozy's successful 2007 presidential campaign. In return, Gaddafi was allegedly promised help in restoring his international image. The case has had significant repercussions for Sarkozy, including the loss of his Legion of Honour, despite maintaining influence within French politics.
