Former French president on trial
Published:Monday | September 21, 2009 | 8:50 AM
The former French Prime Minister, Dominique de Villepin, goes on trial on today.
Mr Villepin is charged with plotting to discredit President Nicolas Sarkozy.
Its alleged that he tried to manipulate a judicial investigation to hurt Mr Sarkozy\'s chances of winning the 2007 presidential election.
If found guilty, Villepin could face up to five years in jail and a $45,000 euro fine.
The former prime minister has denied any wrong-doing.
The case dates back five years, when Nicolas Sarkozy\'s name appeared on a list of top politicians and businessmen sent to Mr Villepin.
It was alleged that those named on the list had received bribes from international arms sales.