Was DSK set up in New York sex case?

26/11/11 16:33 CET

world news

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Could Dominique Strauss-Kahn’s downfall be the result of a plot to derail his French presidential ambitions?

An investigative report by a US journalist raises questions over the ex-IMF chief’s arrest on charges of sexually assaulting a hotel maid in New York in May.

It claims a Sofitel employeee and another man were filmed apparently celebrating as they waited for police to arrive. And it queries whether DSK’s BlackBerry phone was hacked by his political rivals.

The leader of President Sarkozy’s ruling conservatives dismissed such suggestions, saying conclusions could be drawn if there were “facts” or “clear evidence.”

“But as long as this is just gossip, rumours and allegations based on anonymous testimony we know nothing about, you will understand that we remain a little more cautious,” said Jean-Francois Copé.

Nafissatou Diallo continues a civil case against DSK, once tipped to win next year’s French presidential poll for the Socialists. Citing doubts over her credibility, prosecutors dropped all criminal charges against him.

More about: Dominique Strauss-Kahn, France, Media, New York, Review of the year 2011, Sex scandal

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Mali: Rebel groups agree to creation of Islamic state

Two Rebel groups have agreed to merge and create an independent Islamic state in Northern Mali. After seizing Azawad – an area larger than France – two months ago, the groups had initially disagreed, with the secular Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA)…