Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has published his memoir, 'A Prisoner's Diary,' detailing his experiences during his 20-day imprisonment. The book, written rapidly in under three weeks, provides a unique perspective on life as an incarcerated former president.
In the memoir, Sarkozy describes his 12 square metre cell as a clean and bright, albeit stark accommodation, comparing it to a low-grade hotel. He recounts the isolation he faced, spending 23 hours a day confined to his room with limited interactions and a blocked window view. Instead of taking daily exercise outside, which he likened to a cage, he opted for a treadmill in a small sports room, which he found to be a brief escape from confinement.
During his time in La Santé prison, Sarkozy faced numerous challenges, including disruptive fellow inmates and the innate difficulties of prison life. Despite the circumstances, he portrayed the prison staff as respectful and kind, each addressing him by his former title, 'Président'. He also expresses gratitude for the support received through letters from friends and political allies.
Beyond the confines of his personal experiences, Sarkozy uses the memoir to reflect on broader themes of justice, politics, and his controversial conviction for election campaign financing. He maintains his innocence and likens his situation to the infamous Dreyfus Affair, suggesting parallels in the issues of justice he feels he has faced.
The memoir moves beyond his imprisonment to touch upon his relationships with present political leaders. Despite his past support, he criticizes Emmanuel Macron for not directly communicating his dismissal from the Legion of Honour, an act that has changed his perspective. Furthermore, he surprisingly acknowledges Marine Le Pen's public support during his trial, a move that has stirred conversations about political alliances in France.
Sarkozy's book serves not only as a personal reflection but also as a commentary on his legacy and the political landscape in France, showcasing the complexities of his relationships and the ongoing impacts of his conviction on his career.
