Liberal operative was offered $1,000 to get media to cover ‘grubby rumour’ minister was having affair, Icac hears
Summary
The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) heard that a lawyer offered $1,000 to a political operative to get the media to report a false story about a New South Wales minister having an extramarital affair and breaking Covid-19 rules. The minister, David Elliott, denied the claims, and investigations found no evidence to support them. ICAC is also looking into illegal political donations linked to property developer Jean Nassif.Key Facts
- A lawyer for developer Jean Nassif offered $1,000 to a political operative to try to get media coverage of a false affair allegation against Minister David Elliott.
- The letter proving the offer showed the lawyer saying he was "not joking," but the lawyer later called the offer "not serious."
- David Elliott strongly denied having an affair or breaking Covid-19 rules, and witnesses found no evidence.
- ICAC is investigating if Liberal figures received $2 million in illegal donations from Nassif in exchange for political favors.
- Journalist efforts to publish the claim failed, despite photos and draft statements submitted.
- A private investigator was paid to watch Elliott, initially as a favor, then for payment, but the rumors were proven untrue.
- Recordings thought to be secret were accidental voice messages shared among politicians.
- The investigation into these matters is ongoing, with key witnesses continuing to give evidence.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
