The Paris Court of Appeal approved a request by Sarkozy’s lawyers for his release under judicial supervision.
“The court declares that your application for release is granted and places you under judicial supervision,” the court president said, according to DW.
The court barred Sarkozy from contacting Justice Minister Gerard Darmanin and anyone involved in the case.
He is also barred from leaving France, as the court said it “cannot completely rule out” the “risk of pressure and collusion” between his co-defendants, particularly with witnesses abroad.
After the verdict, Sarkozy’s lawyer Christophe Inglein told reporters that the “next step” was an appeals court over allegations of Libyan funding of Sarkozy’s 2007 election campaign.
Prosecutors supported his release, citing his consistent court appearances and cooperation with police, while restricting his contact with other defendants and witnesses.
In a video appearance, Mr Sarkozy described his short stint in prison as a “nightmare” and “harsh” experience.
In September, Sarkozy was sentenced to five years in prison for conspiracy in connection with the alleged financing of Libya’s 2007 campaign.
Master’s degree/PR