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Algerian energy minister, Chakib Khelil, said that he will not resign and he is not involved in the corruption probe related to Algeria’s single biggest source of income and the biggest employer.
The minister has been reluctant to answer questions regarding the corruption scandal that is engulfing the state-owned Algerian energy giant Sonatrach. However, he has decided to speak after allegations were made in local newspapers regarding his involvement.
“I will not resign, and I am not a target,” Khelil said. “The media is creating stories.”
Khelil, is a highly respected politician in both Algeria and the rest of the world and has held other high ranking positions including the OPEC presidency. He is also a close confidante of Algerian President Bouteflika.
The stories from the local media Khelil is referring to regard Mohamed Meziane, the ex- CEO of the Sonatrach, telling investigators into the corruption probe that the contracts under scrutiny were signed after the consent of the minister.
