Nicolas Sarkozy, the former President of France, has made history by becoming the first ex-leader of the country to serve a prison sentence. Sarkozy, who held office from 2007 to 2012, began his five-year term at La Santé prison in Paris on October 21, 2025, following his conviction for conspiring to fund his 2007 election campaign with money from the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi. This marks the first time since World War II that a former French leader has been incarcerated, the last being Philippe Pétain, who was jailed for treason in 1945. Sarkozy, now 70, arrived at the prison under heavy security, maintaining his innocence and vowing that ‘truth will prevail.’ He was placed in an isolation wing for his safety, sharing a 9 sq m (95 sq ft) cell equipped with basic amenities, including a toilet, shower, desk, and small TV. He is allowed one hour of daily exercise. Outside his Paris villa, over 100 supporters gathered to show solidarity, responding to a call from his son Louis. Another son, Pierre, urged for messages of love and support. Sarkozy’s wife, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, was seen embracing him outside their home as supporters cheered. Despite his imprisonment, Sarkozy has received official support from French President Emmanuel Macron and Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin, who plans to visit him in prison. Sarkozy continues to appeal his conviction, arguing that he is innocent and a victim of political revenge. The case has sparked widespread debate in France, with Sarkozy’s supporters viewing it as a miscarriage of justice, while critics see it as a necessary step in holding leaders accountable. Sarkozy’s imprisonment has also drawn attention to the broader issue of political corruption and the influence of foreign money in elections. As he begins his sentence, Sarkozy has chosen to take two books with him: a biography of Jesus and ‘The Count of Monte Cristo,’ a story of wrongful imprisonment and ultimate vindication.
分类： politics
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Slovakia court sentences the man behind the attempted assassination of prime minister to 21 years
A Slovak court has handed down a 21-year prison sentence to Juraj Cintula, the man responsible for the attempted assassination of Prime Minister Robert Fico in May 2024. The attack, which occurred in the town of Handlová, left Fico critically injured but he has since recovered after undergoing multiple surgeries. Cintula, a 72-year-old retiree, was convicted of committing a terrorist act, a charge he vehemently denied during the trial. The court ruled that his actions were a direct attack on the government, aimed at inciting its overthrow. Cintula’s motive, as he stated, was his opposition to Fico’s policies, including the cancellation of a special anti-corruption office, the cessation of military aid to Ukraine, and the government’s cultural stance. Despite his claims of not intending to kill, the court found his actions to be a severe threat to national security. The verdict can still be appealed, though it remains unclear if Cintula will pursue this option. The trial has further polarized Slovakia, a nation already divided over Fico’s pro-Russian and anti-Western policies. Critics argue that Fico’s leadership aligns Slovakia with Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, sparking widespread protests across the country. Fico, who was absent during the trial, has publicly forgiven his attacker, stating he harbors no hatred towards him.
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‘Strange’ being an Irish citizen who can’t vote in presidential election
As the Republic of Ireland prepares to elect its next president on Friday, the issue of voting rights for Irish citizens living abroad or in Northern Ireland has come to the forefront. Currently, only citizens residing within the Republic are eligible to vote, with exceptions for Defence Forces personnel and diplomatic staff serving overseas. This restriction has sparked criticism from many, including Alan Flanagan, a County Longford native now living in London, who described the system as ‘strange’ and called for reform. Flanagan, who has been actively involved in campaigning for voting rights through the group Votes for Irish Citizens Abroad (VICA), emphasized that the Irish president ‘represents Irish people all over the world.’ He argued that extending voting rights to those in Northern Ireland is a ‘no brainer’ and urged the government to act swiftly. The debate dates back to 2013, when a constitutional convention recommended extending presidential voting rights to citizens outside the Republic. Despite widespread political support, including from the ruling parties Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, a 2019 referendum on the issue was postponed, and no new date has been set. Amy Donohoe, a journalist from County Cavan now living in Boston, expressed frustration at being unable to vote, stating, ‘It would be nice to use my vote.’ Meanwhile, Patricia Stephenson, a member of the Seanad, highlighted the emotional and financial burden faced by citizens who had to return to Ireland to vote in past referendums on marriage equality and abortion access. Former government minister Mary Hanafin also voiced support for extending voting rights but stressed the need for better groundwork to foster relations and communication. The election features two main candidates: Catherine Connolly, an independent backed by left-wing parties, and Heather Humphreys of Fine Gael. Both candidates have expressed support for extending voting rights to citizens in Northern Ireland. As the debate continues, the question remains whether Ireland will take steps to ensure its diaspora and Northern Irish citizens have a say in choosing their president.
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Former French president Sarkozy begins a 5-year prison sentence for campaign finance conspiracy
Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy commenced a five-year prison sentence on Tuesday, marking a historic moment as he became the first ex-leader of modern France to be incarcerated. Sarkozy was convicted last month for criminal conspiracy related to the illegal financing of his 2007 presidential campaign using funds from Libya. Accompanied by his wife, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, he left his Paris residence and entered a police vehicle en route to La Santé prison, a notorious facility in the French capital. In a statement shared on social media, Sarkozy declared, “An innocent man is being locked up,” maintaining his innocence and vowing to fight the conviction. His legal team has already filed a request for his release pending appeal. Sarkozy’s journey from the presidential Elysée Palace to prison has captivated the nation, sparking both support and controversy. Hundreds of supporters gathered outside his home, chanting his name and singing the French national anthem, while his family, including his children and grandchildren, stood by his side. Sarkozy’s lawyers revealed that he will be held in solitary confinement for security reasons, a decision that has drawn criticism. Despite the challenges, Sarkozy remains resolute, stating, “I’ll hold my head high, including in front of the doors of La Santé.” He plans to write a book about his prison experience and has prepared a bag with essentials, including family photos and three books, notably Alexandre Dumas’ “The Count of Monte Cristo.” The Paris judge’s decision to enforce the sentence before the appeal hearing underscores the gravity of the offense. Sarkozy’s case continues to stir debate about justice, political accountability, and the independence of the judiciary in France.
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US coalition calls for immediate release of American teenager detained by Israel
A nationwide coalition in the United States is intensifying efforts to secure the release of Mohammed Ibrahim, a 16-year-old American from Tampa, Florida, who has been detained by the Israeli military since February. The coalition, composed of diverse activists, distributed over 2,000 flyers during the ‘No King’ protests across six US states last Saturday, urging citizens to contact their representatives and demand Mohammed’s freedom. The group has been actively raising awareness about his case and lobbying congressional representatives, including sending a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio in August. Mohammed was forcibly taken from his family home in the occupied West Bank in the middle of the night, accused of throwing rocks at a car—a charge he denies. He is currently held without trial at the notorious Ofer military prison, where he has reportedly lost a quarter of his body weight due to inadequate food and is allowed only ten minutes of outdoor time daily. The coalition highlighted his deteriorating health, including a scabies infection that has prevented visitors, and expressed frustration that he was not included in the recent release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees as part of a Gaza ceasefire deal. Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley recently called for his release on social media, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. Mohammed’s family, who has a court date set for October 29, hopes for US government intervention to secure his release. The US State Department has yet to respond to requests for comment, citing potential delays due to the government shutdown.
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Saudi crown prince to visit US seeking similar defence pact to Qatar: Report
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is set to visit the White House next month for a high-profile meeting with former US President Donald Trump. This marks their second encounter since 2018, with reports suggesting the Crown Prince aims to secure a defense pact similar to the executive order Trump signed with Qatar following Israel’s recent attack on Doha. Qatar, home to the largest US military base in the Middle East, has had a complex relationship with Saudi Arabia, including a Saudi-led blockade from 2017 to 2021, which underscored regional ideological divides. Saudi Arabia itself hosts three US air force bases, primarily near the Red Sea, and seeks enhanced military and intelligence cooperation amid ongoing regional instability. The Financial Times highlights the significance of this meeting, noting Saudi Arabia’s confidence in Trump as a willing partner. Trump’s administration has consistently supported Saudi Arabia, avoiding criticism of its human rights record and fostering deep financial ties through his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, whose investment firm recently collaborated with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. This visit contrasts sharply with the Biden administration’s strained relations with the Crown Prince, who was once viewed as a pariah but later hosted Biden in Riyadh to discuss global oil supply. Despite efforts to include Saudi Arabia in the Abraham Accords, normalization talks with Israel stalled after the October 2023 Hamas-led attacks and subsequent Gaza conflict. While a fragile ceasefire is in place, Israel’s controversial actions in Gaza and its regional bombings make immediate progress on the Accords unlikely. The Crown Prince’s 2018 visit was marked by widespread acclaim and significant investments in US startups and corporations, positioning him as a modernizing force for Saudi Arabia. However, his reputation was tarnished by the widely condemned killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, an incident many believe was ordered by the Crown Prince.
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Friendly Albanese-Trump meeting masks Australia’s creeping doubts about US
In a significant diplomatic encounter at the White House on Monday, US President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reaffirmed their nations’ longstanding alliance. Trump emphasized the historical camaraderie, stating, ‘We’ve been long-term, longtime allies and I would say there’s never been anybody better.’ This meeting marked their first official dialogue, with both leaders expressing mutual respect and commitment to bolstering their strategic partnership. However, beneath the surface of this camaraderie lies a complex web of challenges. Australia, traditionally a staunch ally of the US, is beginning to scrutinize the reliability of this relationship under the Trump administration. The imposition of tariffs on Australian goods, including a 10% import tax on most products and a 50% levy on aluminium and steel, has been perceived as a breach of a decades-long free trade agreement. Albanese remarked, ‘This is not the act of a friend,’ highlighting the strain these measures have placed on bilateral ties. Additionally, the review of the Aukus defence pact, which aims to provide Australia with advanced nuclear submarine technology in exchange for support in countering China in the Asia-Pacific, has caused unease in Canberra. Despite these challenges, the meeting concluded on a positive note, with Trump praising Albanese and securing a deal for US investment in Australia’s critical minerals industry. This agreement is expected to help Australia reduce its dependence on China’s near monopoly in this sector. Furthermore, the Aukus pact received a renewed commitment, effectively ending the prolonged review process. While the tariffs remain a contentious issue, they are at the lowest rate compared to other countries, and certain Australian sectors, such as beef, have benefited from the global market upheaval. The meeting also addressed regional security concerns, particularly in light of recent tensions between Chinese and Australian military jets. Beijing’s massive military build-up has heightened anxieties in Canberra, reinforcing the perception that Australia cannot defend itself independently. Consequently, there is a growing inclination among Australian political and security experts to seek closer ties with the US, despite the unpredictability of the Trump administration. As Jared Mondschein of the United States Studies Centre noted, ‘A lot of allies and partners throughout the region are grabbing for the uncertainty of a term-limited Trump administration over the certainty of a Xi Jinping-led China.’ Thus, while the dynamics of the US-Australia relationship are evolving, the fundamental alliance remains intact, driven by shared strategic interests and regional security concerns.
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Japan’s parliament is set to elect Sanae Takaichi as nation’s first female prime minister
Japan’s parliament is preparing to elect ultraconservative Sanae Takaichi as the nation’s first female prime minister on Tuesday, marking a historic moment in Japanese politics. This development follows a coalition agreement between her struggling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the right-wing Japan Innovation Party (JIP), a move that signals a further shift to the right for the governing bloc. Takaichi will succeed Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, whose resignation earlier Tuesday ended a three-month political vacuum triggered by the LDP’s devastating election loss in July. The alliance with JIP ensures Takaichi’s election, as the opposition remains fragmented. However, the coalition lacks a majority in both houses of parliament, raising concerns about the stability and longevity of her government. Takaichi emphasized the importance of political stability during Monday’s signing ceremony with JIP leader Hirofumi Yoshimura, stating that it is crucial for advancing economic and diplomatic measures. The coalition agreement reflects Takaichi’s hawkish and nationalistic views, which have drawn criticism from centrist and dovish factions. The LDP’s recent split with its longtime partner, the Buddhist-backed Komeito, has further complicated the political landscape. Once elected, Takaichi, a protégé of the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, is expected to pursue policies focused on strengthening Japan’s military and economy, as well as revising the country’s pacifist constitution. However, her government’s weak parliamentary position and her controversial stances on issues like gender equality, same-sex marriage, and Japan’s wartime history could hinder her ability to implement significant reforms. Takaichi’s premiership comes at a critical juncture, with pressing challenges such as rising prices and public frustration demanding immediate attention.
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Trump is going to Asia — what happens next is anyone’s guess
President Donald Trump is set to embark on a pivotal journey to Asia, aiming to address critical global economic issues and ease escalating trade tensions. The trip, which includes stops in Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea, is expected to culminate in a high-stakes meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The outcome of this meeting could significantly influence the future of the global economy, as both leaders grapple with ongoing trade disputes and tariff threats. Trump’s strategy of improvisation has yielded mixed results in his second term, with successes like the return of hostages in the Middle East but ongoing challenges in resolving conflicts in Ukraine and trade tensions with China. The lack of clarity surrounding Trump’s itinerary has added to the uncertainty, with analysts noting the absence of a clear Asia strategy from the administration. Despite this, some experts believe Trump’s approach is gaining traction, particularly in Japan and South Korea, where leaders are eager to solidify partnerships. The trip also offers an opportunity for Trump to showcase his peacemaking efforts, particularly in Southeast Asia, where Malaysia is hosting the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit. However, concerns remain about the potential for a breakdown in talks with Xi, which could have far-reaching consequences for the international economy. As Trump prepares for his first trip to Asia in his second term, the stakes could not be higher, with the world watching closely to see if he can navigate these complex issues successfully.
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New international body for mediation formed in Hong Kong
A transformative milestone in global conflict resolution was achieved on Monday with the official launch of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) in Hong Kong. As the world’s first intergovernmental body exclusively focused on mediation, the IOMed aims to provide a cost-effective and collaborative alternative to traditional legal disputes, particularly benefiting developing economies and small businesses. The inauguration ceremony took place at the organization’s permanent headquarters in the historic Old Wan Chai Police Station, symbolizing Hong Kong’s emergence as a central hub for international mediation. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu emphasized the city’s unique advantages under the ‘one country, two systems’ framework, including its robust legal system and world-class law schools. Lee also announced plans to host a global mediation summit in 2026 and expand facilities at the Hong Kong International Legal Service Building to support the IOMed’s operations. Teresa Cheng Yeuk-wah, the newly elected secretary-general, described the IOMed as a ‘global public good’ rooted in principles of equality, mutual respect, and understanding. Hua Chunying, China’s vice-minister of foreign affairs and chairperson of the IOMed Governing Council, highlighted the organization’s alignment with the global demand for peaceful dispute resolution. She underscored the IOMed’s commitment to affordability, accessibility, and efficiency, positioning it as a sustainable complement to existing international mechanisms. Representatives from Kenya, Dominica, and Venezuela praised the IOMed as a long-awaited platform for the Global South, offering a dedicated forum for governments, businesses, and investors to find common ground. The establishment of the IOMed marks the culmination of three years of development since its initial proposal, signaling a new era in global governance and conflict resolution.