Former French President Sarkozy questioned for second day
Nicolas Sarkozy was detained by police for a second day of questioning over allegations the late Libyan leader bankrolled his election campaign.
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Mr. Sarkozy gets into his car as he leaves his home in Paris, France on March 21. Photo:Reuters. |
Mr Sarkozy arrives at the headquarters of the anti-corruption, money laundering and tax evasion police in Nanterre, a western suburb of Paris.at about 8am on March 21, according toAFPHe was first detained yesterday morning, but left the police headquarters building around midnight. His lawyers did not respond to requests for comment.
Since 2013, investigators have been examining newspaper articles, as well as statements by Seif al-Islam, the son of late Libyan leader Moamer Kadhafi, about funds used to help Mr Sarkozy run for president.
It is one of France's most shocking political scandals and one of several investigations into the right-wing politician since his presidency ended in 2012.
Brice Hortefeux, a Sarkozy ally who served as a top minister under him, was also questioned until 11.30pm yesterday. "To speak freely and to provide detailed information is necessary to end the chain of mistakes and lies," he said.Hortefeux then posted on Twitter.
Under French law, Mr Sarkozy can be held for questioning for up to 48 hours. He can then be released, asked to return for further questioning, or brought before a judge to face charges.
