Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been found guilty of criminal conspiracy related to illegal campaign financing from Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi, and has been sentenced to five years in prison, with the possibility of appeal.

The judiciary remains largely silent in the face of political and media criticism, with only union representatives publicly defending judicial independence.

There is an ongoing debate about the fairness of provisional execution laws, with Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu advocating for parliamentary review to address societal concerns.

Some legal experts and civil society figures condemn rhetoric portraying judges as political enemies, emphasizing that judges apply laws passed by politicians without political motivation.

Public figures and media outlets have reacted strongly, with some criticizing the decision as unjust or politically motivated, while others see it as a necessary step towards moralizing politics.

International organizations like Transparency International, Sherpa, and Anticor have praised the verdict as a historic move against corruption and impunity, reinforcing the principle that no one is above the law.

The case has divided the political class, with some leaders expressing concern over its implications, while others see it as a victory for justice and accountability.

This ruling is part of a broader movement to strengthen judicial independence in France, ending a long history of legal protections for the political elite and promoting equality before the law.

This landmark verdict highlights ongoing tensions surrounding judicial independence in France, especially in politically sensitive cases, with Sarkozy's supporters contesting the evidence and alleging political bias.

The case has sparked debate over the fairness of judicial procedures, with critics emphasizing the importance of maintaining the rule of law and independence of the judiciary amid rising populist sentiments and political instability.

Coverage by outlets like Mediapart underscores broader issues such as social protests, austerity measures, and other pressing national concerns, illustrating the context in which this legal case unfolds.

The verdict is seen as a reminder that no one, including powerful political figures, is above the law, reflecting a shift away from France’s past era of impunity for elites.