Eshel on Tuesday
Photo: Gil Yohanan
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's bureau chief, Natan Eshel, denied the allegations that he harassed one of the PMO's employee, R. Eshel was questioned for nine hours on Tuesday, by officers of the Civil Service Commission.
A source close to the investigation told Ynet that Eshel "failed to provide all the answers" during the session. Civil Service officials will question him again on Wednesday.
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Eshel was confronted with different staffers' testimonies during the session, including statements made by Government Secretary Zvi Hauser, Military Secretary to the Prime Minister Major-General Yohanan Locker and National Information Directorate Chief Yoaz Hendel.
Attorney General Yehuda Weinstein will be briefed on the details of the questioning after it is completed on Wednesday. He is then to decide whether to continue the investigation, and whether disciplinary action can be taken against Eshel even without a statement from the alleged victim, who refuses to testify. Weinstein could also decide to order R. to give a statement, despite her refusal.
"Everything will be fine," Eshel said on his way to the questioning room on Tuesday morning.
The sexual harassment allegations were not discussed Tuesday, and are expected to be broached during the following session.
On Sunday, Eshel extended his leave by 10 additional days. Sources close to the case estimate that he will not be able to reassume his role in the bureau due to the controversial affair.
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