Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been granted release from prison just 20 days into his five-year sentence. This decision comes as he appeals his conviction related to an alleged scheme to finance his 2007 presidential campaign with funds from the late Libyan leader Moammar Qaddafi's regime. A Paris appeals court ruled on Monday that Sarkozy could leave the notorious Prison de la Santé, where he had been held in solitary confinement for security reasons. The court's ruling allows Sarkozy, 70, to be released under judicial supervision. He is prohibited from leaving France and from contacting key individuals involved in the case, including co-defendants and witnesses. The court emphasized that under French law, release is the norm while awaiting an appeal, with detention being the exception. Sarkozy described his time in prison as “a nightmare,” stating, “It’s hard, very hard, it certainly is for any inmate, I would even say it’s grueling.” He expressed gratitude to the prison staff who assisted him during his incarceration. Sarkozy's legal troubles began after he lost his re-election bid in 2012. He was convicted on September 25 for seeking illegal funding from Libya, making him the first former French head of state to be imprisoned. His conviction stemmed from meetings between his aides and Qaddafi's associates, which were interpreted as efforts to secure financial support for his campaign. During the appeal hearing, Sarkozy maintained his innocence, stating, “I will never admit something I didn’t do.” He has faced multiple legal challenges, including a previous conviction for corruption and influence peddling, which was upheld by France’s highest court. Sarkozy's appeal hearings are expected to take place next year, with no specific date set yet. He also faces a ruling on November 26 regarding allegations of illegal financing related to his failed 2012 re-election campaign. Despite his legal issues, Sarkozy retains a base of supporters. He has portrayed himself as a victim of a miscarriage of justice, drawing parallels to the protagonist in "The Count of Monte Cristo," a novel he brought with him to prison. As Sarkozy prepares for his appeal, he remains under judicial supervision, navigating a complex legal landscape that has captivated the nation.