Fugitive property developer Jean Nassif to face NSW corruption watchdog after medical cancellation

Fugitive property developer Jean Nassif is expected to front the NSW corruption watchdog this afternoon, after cancelling an earlier scheduled appearance on medical grounds.

Mr Nassif had initially declined to assist the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), but was added to the schedule earlier this month to appear via video link from Lebanon.

The hearing was postponed when Mr Nassif provided a medical certificate excusing him from giving evidence in the inquiry.

As per Monday's witness list, he is expected to appear later today.

It comes as ICAC examines whether political donations linked to Mr Nassif were used to build influence within the NSW Liberal Party and advance his development interests.

Under NSW law, property developers and anyone donating on their behalf are prohibited from making political donations.

Mr Nassif has not returned to Australia since fleeing to Lebanon in December 2022, the month a previous parliamentary inquiry began.

NSW Police issued an international arrest warrant for Mr Nassif over alleged fraud offences in June 2023.

His construction and property development company, Toplace, then collapsed into administration the following month, owing creditors a reported $2 billion and leaving thousands of apartment owners facing repairs to properties affected by serious defects.

In a letter tabled at a parliamentary inquiry in 2023, Mr Nassif described allegations against him as "not credible".