Palestinian Minister accused of corruption suspends work

Palestinian Minister of Agricultural Ismail Dqeik, who is facing corruption charges, said he respects the decision to be put on trial and expressed his confidence that the Palestinian judiciary will be fair and prove his innocence. Dqeik added that he will suspend the performance of his job duties until the court issues a decision, expressing hope that the Palestinian people will understand that suspects are innocent until proven guilty. He stressed that he is innocent of all charges against him and is ready for a public hearing because he has nothing to hide, pointing out that the Palestinian judiciary has proven its efficiency on more than one occasion and will certainly make the right decision this time to prove him innocent.