Samih Sawiris

Orascom Housing Communities, linked to Samih Sawiris, was involved for several years in a dispute with the Egyptian authorities concerning land for the Haram City housing project. The dispute gave rise to the threat and subsequent prospect of international arbitration. In 2018, the government and the company concluded an agreement providing, among other things, for the reorganisation of land holdings and the withdrawal of the associated arbitration proceedings.

State of the evidence

Documented

The Panama Papers revealed Orascom Development Holding, then headed by Samih Sawiris, among the entities linked to Mossack Fonseca's services reported in the Egyptian press. The disclosure contributed to debate about offshore structures and the tax transparency of major corporate groups.

State of the evidence

Documented

Sawiris stated that he would not undertake new investments in Egypt while political repression and legal shortcomings continued to hinder the economy, a highly critical stance following the military's return to power.

State of the evidence

Documented

Legal status — source text

Not applicable

Attribution

Directly implicated

Samih Sawiris was sentenced at first instance to two years in prison in a case concerning financial disclosures and share-price manipulation involving Orascom Development, in his capacity as the company's legal representative.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated

Course of the proceedings

1. Formally charged — Formal charge before the current outcome