I do not think many will regret Jacques Chirac's decision. He is mostly noted for his rebellious tone (or should I say "independent") and stance of doing of what he wants to do regardless of what others think.
International Level: International Guru / Political Participation: 3231 100%
Right-Wing Nicolas Sarkozy Wins French Presidency, Thousands Protest in Streets of Paris
In France, conservative candidate Nicolas Sarkozy has been elected to be the country's new president. Sarkozy won a clear victory over Socialist rival Segolene Royal with 53% of the vote to her 47%. The estimated turnout of 84%
was the highest in France in three decades.
Ref. https://www.democracynow.org/article.pl?sid=07/05/07/1411217
Chirac formally probed over scam
French ex-President Jacques Chirac is questioned over alleged embezzlement while he was Paris mayor.
Ref. https://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/7105478.stm
FRANCE - POLITICS: Would-be leaders unveil manifestos for the Socialist Party
Local French News In English
Candidates to the leadership of France's bitterly divided Socialists presented their manifestos before a party committee Tuesday, with four platforms emerging as the most credible. A new leader will be elected at the party congress in November.
Source: France24 - france
FRANCE: Opposition Socialists set October date for primaries
Local French News In English
France's opposition Socialist Party announced on Tuesday that it will hold two rounds of primaries on October 9 and October 16 to determine who will be the party's candidate to challenge President Nicolas Sarkozy in 2012.
Source: FRANCE - latest news report on France, French politics, French society, culture and economy