VOICED: French ex-president Chirac faces graft trial

Jack Chirac, at 78, faces legal charges for corruption and embezzlement, becoming the first former French President to be tried. Allegations include misuse of public funds and bogus jobs for political allies during his tenure as mayor of Paris. Despite potential jail time, a prison sentence is unlikely due to political deals and lack of participation from Paris Town Hall. The trial proceeds with anticorruption groups and individuals, while public opinion remains divided on Chirac's culpability.

What is the historical significance of Jack Chirac's trial?

• He is the first French politician to be accused of embezzlement.

• He is the first mayor of Paris to face trial.

• He is the first former French President to face trial.

• He is the first French President to be re-elected.

What were the specific allegations made against Jack Chirac?

• He was accused of insider trading.

• He allegedly misused funds for personal luxury.

• He allegedly gave fake jobs to political friends.

• He was accused of tax evasion.

Why was Jack Chirac immune from prosecution during his presidency?

• He was never accused during his presidency.

• He had diplomatic immunity.

• He had a special agreement with the courts.

• He was protected by a presidential immunity law.

What was the outcome of the Paris Town Hall's complaint against Chirac?

• It was upheld by the court.

• It was expanded to include more charges.

• It was withdrawn after a deal with the UNP party.

• It was dismissed due to lack of evidence.

How do the French people feel about Chirac's trial?

• They are mostly unaware of it.

• They are divided on whether it should happen.

• They are in full support of it.

• They are unanimously against it.