Fugitive property developer Jean Nassif appeared via video link from his Beirut residence before the New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) on Tuesday, vehemently denying allegations of corruption and accusing state politicians of targeting him and his family.

Nassif, 58, is a central figure in an Icac inquiry examining whether individuals linked to the NSW Liberal Party anticipated receiving approximately $2 million in prohibited donations from him in exchange for political favours. These alleged favours include damaging the career of former NSW Liberal minister David Elliott and orchestrating the removal of then-building commissioner David Chandler.

During the hearing, Nassif rejected suggestions that he fled Australia in December 2022 to evade providing evidence at a parliamentary inquiry. He stated his departure was to accept an international award and later to avoid threats, but insisted he plans to return once he has cleared his name. “I’m going to collect the beautiful legal team who are willing to fight politicians to clear my name,” he told the commission, adding he would pursue legal action against the NSW government at the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

Nassif also spoke out in defence of his 32-year-old daughter, Ashlyn Nassif, who earlier this month received a six-month community corrections order after pleading guilty to providing false or misleading information to secure a $150 million construction loan from Westpac. Her lawyers argued she was pressured by her father to falsify documents. Nassif contested this, describing her guilty plea as forced and accusing authorities of persecuting her unjustly: “My daughter has been forced to plead guilty so she can finish that case... but the police could not get any evidence of wrongdoing.”

Throughout his testimony, Nassif repeatedly criticised NSW politicians and the state’s construction regulatory framework. He accused David Elliott of delaying approvals to exert pressure on him, alleged the former building commissioner lied about defects in his developments, and expressed frustration with government corruption and budget management.

Counsel assisting the inquiry, Peggy Dwyer SC, and assistant commissioner Fabian Gleeson SC, urged Nassif to maintain composure and focus on the inquiry’s purpose, which is establishing the truth behind the allegations. Nassif responded defiantly, rejecting attempts to moderate his behaviour and insisting he would continue to speak candidly.

Nassif’s appearance follows earlier absences, including one recent scheduled appearance for which he produced a medical certificate to excuse himself. The inquiry continues as Icac seeks to clarify the extent of any improper conduct involving political donations and regulatory influence connected to Nassif.