Sarkozy and Hollande Face Heated Election Debate

Hollande and Sarkozy debate on several subjects

After a tense three-hour debate that was watched by millions of French voters, François Hollande, the socialist rival of Nicolas Sarkozy, started with accusations by saying that President Sarkozy has divided the French people.

Afterwards Hollande stated that if he were elected, he would be a “president of justice.” He also accused Sarkozy of lying about economic figures. The ousting president denied that he has given a divisive figure and explained that during his five-year government there has not been a hint of violence.

Sarkozy hit hard against his Socialist rival’s economic plans, claiming that Hollande’s promise to add 60,000 new civil service jobs would augment the debts of France.

In the first round the French presidential election, Sarkozy trailed Hollande by 7 per cent. The second round of votings will be on Sunday May 6. (AV)