The Convention for the Renewal of Comoros (Crc) has filed a complaint against its member and former Education Minister, Mahamoud Salim Hafi, over allegations of blanchiment and corruption. In a recent interview, Hafi accused the ruling party of using its bank account for illicit operations. The Crc and Exim Bank Comores have denied these allegations. An audience is scheduled for September 25 to hear the case.
Hafi made the accusations in an interview with Fcbk Fm, claiming that the Crc's bank account at Exim Bank Comores received suspicious funds that were then transferred to personal accounts. However, Exim Bank Comores has strongly denied these allegations, stating that they are "totally false, defamatory, and unfounded." The bank emphasized that it has built a reputation for integrity and trust over the years.
The Crc has also denied Hafi's allegations, stating that it does not have a bank account with Exim Bank Comores. According to a statement released by the party, Exim Bank Comores confirmed in a letter dated September 18 that no account was registered in the party's name. The Crc described Hafi's allegations as unfounded and damaging to the party's reputation.
Youssoufa Mohamed Ali, the current Director of Cabinet for Defense, and Najda Saïd, the party's treasurer, have taken legal action against Hafi for making injurious statements. An attorney for the plaintiffs, Me Idrisse Mze Mogne, reported that Hafi refused to accept a summons to appear in court. However, Mze Mogne stated that this refusal will not affect the scheduled audience on September 25.
According to the summons, Hafi is accused of making injurious statements, which are punishable under articles 231, 234, 237, and 239 of the penal code. Mze Mogne expressed surprise that Hafi is refusing to appear in court to defend his claims. The attorney believes that this would be an opportunity for Hafi to raise any exceptions he may have.
The Crc and Exim Bank Comores have both suffered reputational damage due to Hafi's allegations. The bank has categorically rejected the accusations, stating that they are malicious and harm its reputation. The Crc has also denied any wrongdoing, describing Hafi's allegations as unfounded.
The case will be heard on September 25, with Hafi facing accusations of making injurious statements. It remains to be seen whether Hafi will appear in court to defend his claims. The Crc and Exim Bank Comores have both denied any wrongdoing, while Hafi has maintained that his allegations are true.
Key points
- The Crc has filed a complaint against Mahamoud Salim Hafi over allegations of blanchiment and corruption.
- Exim Bank Comores has denied allegations of involvement in illicit financial activities.
- An audience is scheduled for September 25 to hear the case.
