Israel's attorney general on Tuesday closed a corruption case against prime minister Ariel Sharon.
Attorney General Meni Mazuz told a news conference that he is not indicting Sharon on bribe-taking charges because of lack of evidence. Mazuz informed Sharon of the decision by phone before the news conference, The AP reported. "Testimony in this case does not lead us to the conclusion there is any basis for an indictment," Mazuz conveyed.
Contractor David Appel has been indicted for allegedly bribing Sharon in return for political favors, including helping Appel win the Greek government's approval for plans to develop a gambling resort on a Greek island.
The decision clears the way for Sharon to court the opposition Labor Party, which has said it would only consider joining the government if the prime minister is cleared of bribe-taking allegations. (Albawaba.com)
© 2004 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
