Sarkozy, 66, is unlikely to go to jail. But the second conviction here this year for Sarkozy is a stunning fall from grace for the man who led France from 2007 to 2012 and retains influence among conservatives. The two convictions could force Sarkozy to play a more discreet role in next year’s presidential election. “Can you imagine me going into a meeting to discuss the cost of flags?” he told the court in June. His modest attempts at tax and labour reforms and limited success in creating jobs disenchanted both free-marketeers and centrist voters.

Source: bd News24 September 30, 2021 12:56 UTC