Sarkozy Allies Face Scrutiny Over Alleged Libyan Campaign Financing

Testimonies reveal questionable dealings and meetings involving key figures in the Sarkozy-Kadhafi trial, including former ministers Claude Guéant and Brice Hortefeux.

Claude Guéant, Sarkozy's former chief of staff, faced intense questioning about a 2005 trip to Libya, allegedly linked to preparing illicit campaign financing for Sarkozy's 2007 presidential bid.
Guéant defended his solo trip to meet Abdallah Senoussi, a convicted terrorist, claiming he was unaware of the meeting's nature and described it as a 'traquenard' (trap).
Prosecutors highlighted inconsistencies in Guéant's testimony, including his association with Ziad Takieddine, a controversial intermediary central to the case.
Brice Hortefeux, another Sarkozy ally, downplayed his connections to Takieddine, despite evidence of multiple meetings and a photo of them together on Takieddine's yacht.
The trial continues to probe whether Libyan funds were funneled into Sarkozy's campaign, with testimonies from victims' families and further details on key meetings expected.