Carlos Ghosn has for the first time given his version of the events that led to his arrest in Tokyo seven weeks ago on suspicion of financial misconduct.
The global business leader’s spectacular downfall following his arrest in November has shaken the international auto industry and strained the alliance he built between Nissan, Renault and Mitsubishi Motors ( MMTOF).
Prosecutors suspect Ghosn of under-reporting his income by tens of millions of dollars and transferring personal investment losses to Nissan.
Ghosn’s version of events
Speaking in court, Ghosn said he had «always acted honorably and legally» and with the knowledge and approval of the appropriate executives inside the company.
Ghosn expressed «love and appreciation for Nissan,» telling the court: «I have dedicated two decades of my life to reviving Nissan. I worked on these goals day and night.»
According to a written version of his remarks that was issued via a representative before Tuesday’s proceedings, Ghosn insisted he had been «unfairly detained based on meritless and unsubstantiated accusations.»
A Brazilian-born French citizen who grew up in Lebanon, Ghosn requested the open hearing at a Tokyo court to seek an explanation on why he has been held so long.
His appearance generated significant public interest, with hundreds of reporters lining up for just a handful of seats inside the court. No photography is permitted during proceedings.
Following Tuesday’s hearing, Ghosn’s legal team will hold a news conference at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Japan .
Judge says Ghosn is a flight risk
The auto industry legend has been locked in a Tokyo jail cell since November 19, and the court has already approved a request from prosecutors to extend his detention until January 11.
