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‘We have something that will kill Elliott’: Icac questions former Labor councillor over message

‘We have something that will kill Elliott’: Icac questions former Labor councillor over message

Summary

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) is investigating whether a former Labor councillor and others were involved in dishonest actions and improper conduct related to political matters and property development in New South Wales. The inquiry involves messages about damaging a Liberal minister’s reputation and possible illegal political donations linked to a property developer.

Key Facts

  • A former Labor councillor, Sharangan Maheswaran, testified before Icac about messages involving plans to harm the reputation of NSW Liberal minister David Elliott.
  • Maheswaran denied that these messages related to his work for property developer Jean Nassif.
  • Icac is investigating alleged misconduct by Maheswaran and another Labor councillor, Karen Pensabene, including possible blackmail and breaches of public trust.
  • The inquiry also looks into whether Liberal figures expected to receive illegal donations from Nassif for political favors, including harming David Elliott’s career.
  • Maheswaran worked as a lawyer and executive for Nassif’s company, Toplace, but denies wrongdoing.
  • Evidence includes a message from lobbyist Jeremy Greenwood saying “We have something that will kill Elliott.”
  • Maheswaran said he shared common political interests with Greenwood but rejected claims that their messages involved work for Beckington, Greenwood’s company.
  • Maheswaran subcontracted legal work through a company he owned, Anwalt Pty Ltd, and confirmed he was its only employee and shareholder.
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