Qayoumi, according to the indictment, told prosecutors via email that his only role was to place the issue on the agenda of a government meeting, after Ghani had demanded it be expedited. He and Sargand, both of whom no longer work for the government and now live in the United States, declined to appear in Kabul to answer the charges, citing pandemic travel restrictions. Rahmani, who also did not appear, said she provided legal authorities with a detailed explanation of consultations and documented approvals of the contract from the highest levels of the government.

Source: Washington Post July 31, 2021 23:03 UTC