From former president to future prisoner: Sarkozy's conviction divides France

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been convicted of corruption and influence peddling, dividing the nation in the process. The court ruled that Sarkozy had attempted to bribe a judge in exchange for information about an investigation into his 2007 election campaign. This conviction comes after a series of legal troubles for the former president, who has been dogged by various scandals and investigations since leaving office in 2012. The ruling has sparked intense debate in France, with supporters of Sarkozy decrying the decision as a politically motivated attack, while his critics view it as a long-overdue accountability for a leader who they believe abused his power. The case has reignited discussions about the integrity of the French political system and the need for greater transparency and accountability among its highest-ranking officials. Despite the controversy, the verdict marks a significant moment in Sarkozy's political downfall, as he now faces a potential prison sentence and the prospect of a future spent as a convicted feather rather than a former head of state.