Ashraf Zaki Faces Complaint for Misuse of Public Funds

The Egyptian artistic scene witnessed a massive support campaign led by Egyptian celebrities in defense of Dr. Ashraf Zaki, the head of the Actors’ Syndicate, following a recent online attack that escalated to the filing of formal complaints.

In a surprising development, actress Laila Swidan filed a complaint against Ashraf Zaki and members of the syndicate’s board, accusing them of misusing public funds. The complaint alleged that syndicate officials had contracted for the purchase and rental of several theaters without consulting or obtaining approval from the general assembly members, and failed to include these contracts on the agenda of the ordinary general assembly meeting.

The complaint further stated that purchases were made through direct orders, alongside the execution of development and restoration works at the Tiatro El Nil theater on Fuad Street in Alexandria, without the knowledge or consent of general assembly members. It also cited approval for filming the entire “Tiatro” series inside Al-Nahar Theater, which is owned by the syndicate, without referring the matter to the general assembly.

In response to these accusations, celebrities rallied in support, with many publishing posts on their official social media pages to defend Ashraf Zaki. Prominent among them was actress Yosra, who wrote: “Dr. Ashraf Zaki, you are my syndicate head, and I am proud of you and all the efforts you expend for the syndicate, its members, and the Egyptian art sector... I have seen your dedication to standing by artists, young and old, and to safeguarding their dignity and rights.”

Actor Yasser Jalal also joined the support campaign, stating: “Full support for my mentor and brother, Dr. Ashraf Zaki, who has done so much for artists. His humanitarian stance toward everyone cannot be denied or forgotten by anyone.”

A large number of other celebrities also participated in the support campaign, including his wife, actress Rojina, Nabila Ebeid, Dina Sherbini, Badriya Taleb, Bushra, Shimaa Seif, Ehab Fahmy, Mona Fawzy, Maha Salim, and Mohamed El Adel.