Media reports accusing Alternate Minister for Administrative Reform George Katrougalos of taking advantage of his post to rehire former clients — sacked from the public sector — caused an uproar over the weekend.

According to the article To Vima newspaper, Katrougalos, as a partner in a law firm before he became minister, signed private agreements with fired civil servants immediately before the Jan. 25 elections. The contracts stipulated that he would receive a 12% commission of the gross amount that would be awarded to his clients by court, in case of re-instatement.

Speaking to ANT1 on Monday, Katrougalos said he is not receiving money from these cases, adding that the decision to reinstate civil servants was not his decision but that of the ruling Radical Left Coalition (SYRIZA). He also said that he would not step down from his duties as lawyer as he believes he has done nothing wrong and announced that he would ask for the lifting of the attorney-client privilege concerning his private agreements.

The publication of the investigative article reactions from the opposition parties, especially from New Democracy, with several deputies asking for his resignation. ND is also accusing the government of sharing responsibility for not expelling Katrougalos.

In response to these allegations, the government expressed its support, saying Katrougalos provided all the necessary explanations proving his innocence. According to reports, the Maximos Mansion is in constant communication with Katrougalos, in an effort to develop together a common front and to deflect attacks.

Governmental sources characterize the article as a “libelous publication” which was published on purpose just before Alexis Tsipras visit to Germany, to create a negative climate for the Prime Minister. The same sources believe that the aim of those allegations is to undermine the Government’s efforts to fight corruption in a wide range of sectors.

However, there are some in the government who believe that the issue could have been handled better by the minister. SYRIZA MEP Manolis Glezos said he trusts Katrougalos to make the right decision that would facilitate the government’s work, while he stressed that he believes there was no wrongdoing.