In an escalating standoff between the executive and oversight bodies, Oil Minister Mohammed Aoun has challenged his suspension from office by the Administrative Control Authority (ACA), setting the stage for a potential legal confrontation.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Aoun flatly denied receiving any formal notification of his suspension. “I have not been served the suspension order from the ACA,” he stated, signaling his intent to contest the matter through legal avenues. “Every incident has its story,” Aoun added cryptically.
However, the ACA maintained in an official statement that it has ordered Aoun’s “precautionary suspension” from his ministerial post in line with Article 31 of its governing law. The decision, according to the watchdog, stems from an ongoing investigation into Case No. 178, which has allegedly uncovered “legal violations” warranting Aoun’s temporary removal.
The ACA’s directive was issued based on recommendations from its General Investigation Administration director, after scrutinizing evidence gathered during the corruption probe targeting the oil and gas sector.
This extraordinary measure marks a dramatic escalation in the simmering tensions between Aoun’s ministry and the oversight authority over accusations of graft and misconduct. Political observers warn that the looming legal battle could further polarize the opposing factions and potentially destabilize the fragile unity government.