Investigation against me a scam and torture: Manu Sawhney

Currently suspended over various allegations of misconduct, International Cricket Council (ICC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Manu Sawhney has denied the allegations leveled against him and claimed that he was the victim of a premeditated conspiracy. He has said that the investigation against him is scam and torture. Sawhney, in his detailed reply to the disciplinary hearing held on June 17, has argued that he has been deprived of a fair trial and the principles of basic justice have been ignored. He has also termed the entire investigation process as a scam. The suspended CEO said in a statement on Monday, “I am clear and well aware that I have been the victim of a premeditated victimization plan.” All the pretense of launching a fair process and assuring me of a fair trial has completely stopped. No attempt has been made to comply with ICC’s internal policies and even the basic principles of substantive justice.

It may be mentioned that Sahni was suspended on March 9 on the basis of four specific charges. They are charged with targeting certain employees, showing physical influence, directly or indirectly affecting the health and well-being of employees through their behavior and failing to report to the ICC and enforcing decisions without proper consultation. All these allegations were based on the findings of PricewaterhouseCoopers Pvt Ltd, which was tasked with conducting an independent cultural assessment at the ICC.

In an 11-page statement here, he gave a befitting reply to the allegations leveled against him, saying his livelihood cannot be put at risk because of anonymous allegations. These allegations are based entirely on anonymous statements, which no one has attempted to verify or investigate. Based on our bullet points I could potentially lose my livelihood and my reputation. To be honest, the whole situation is nothing short of a scam.

The suspended ICC CEO said, “I believe it is important for my integrity and the ICC’s integrity to oppose this coercive attempt to remove me, which will set a very dangerous precedent.” I am also committed to ensuring that the significant achievements of the ICC during my tenure are not taken out of history. I have the right to appeal. I will exercise my right to appeal any guilty decision to the Board in accordance with paragraph 7 of the ICC’s Disciplinary Policy and clause 17.4 of my employment contract.