Icac Hears Labor Councillor's Fear Over Liberal Fundraiser 2026

The Icac inquiry has heard that a Labor councillor who attended a 2021 Liberal fundraiser was worried about a potential Icac inquiry, as the New South Wales anti-corruption watchdog examines allegations of illegal donations. The Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) heard on Monday that Sharangan Maheswaran, a former Strathfield councillor, feared his presence at the event would result in him being forced to give evidence.

Background of the Icac Inquiry

The Icac is examining whether Liberal factional operatives Christian Ellis, Jeremy Greenwood, and Charles Perrottet, the younger brother of former NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet, received $2 million in illegal donations from property developer Jean Nassif in exchange for political outcomes. Dominic Perrottet is not named as a person of interest and is not accused of wrongdoing.

Sharangan Maheswaran was a lawyer to Nassif and became an executive at Nassif's company, Toplace, in September 2020. In June 2022, NSW Liberal MP Ray Williams used parliamentary privilege to allege that senior members of the party had been 'paid significant funds' to install new councillors on the Hills Shire council to support Toplace development applications. After the speech, the then-premier Dominic Perrottet referred the allegations to Icac.

Maheswaran's Reaction and Concerns

On Monday, Maheswaran was shown a message he had written after Williams's speech: 'Oh shit, did he touch on me?' He also asked for 'that invoice for the Dom lunch fixed up'. The Icac heard that Maheswaran was concerned about being called to give evidence.

The inquiry is delving into the connections between political fundraisers and potential corruption. The Liberal fundraiser in question was attended by Dominic Perrottet, and Maheswaran's presence there has become a focal point.

Key Takeaways from the Icac Hearing

• Labor councillor Sharangan Maheswaran attended a Liberal fundraiser in 2021.
• He feared being forced to give evidence to Icac.
• Icac is investigating $2 million in alleged illegal donations from Jean Nassif.
• Dominic Perrottet is not accused of wrongdoing.

Comparison of Key Figures and Roles

Implications for NSW Politics

The Icac inquiry highlights the ongoing scrutiny of political donations and their potential to influence council decisions. The allegations of illegal donations and the involvement of high-profile figures underscore the importance of transparency in political fundraising.

As the inquiry continues, further revelations may emerge about the extent of the alleged corruption and the roles played by various individuals. The Icac hearing serves as a reminder of the watchdog's role in upholding integrity in public office.

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