Announcing his return to politics, former President of France Nicolas Sarkozy has condemned François Hollande for introducing same-sex marriage to the country, calling it “humiliating” for families.

According to The Guardian, Mr Sarkozy reintroduced himself to the French public in a prime-time news interview this week, where he made several statements criticising Hollande’s government.

When asked about about the introduction of equal marriage last year, he said he “detested” the way it was “forced” into law.

He added: “[The government is] humiliating families and humiliating people who love the family,” although conceded he would not attempt to repeal the legislation.

In the 45-minute-interview, Mr Sarkozy said he blamed himself for losing the 2012 presidential elections. But now, he said, he “does not have a choice” but to return to politics.

The 59-year-old politician, currently on his third wife, has affirmed his opposition to marriage equality before, saying he views the definition of a family as one mother and one father.

In a rare speaking appearance last year, he called it “unwise” to push for same-sex marriage during an economic crisis, as it would risk causing a “divide in the country.”