A solicitor has been fined for his participation in a controversial Iranian TV programme known for its antisemitic content.
Mohammed Tasnime Akunjee, a consultant criminal defence solicitor, faced disciplinary action following his appearance on the Iranian state-owned channel, Press TV. During this broadcast, Mr Akunjee made assertions about the London-based law firm, Mishcon de Reya, which were deemed inaccurate. Specifically, he accused the firm of money laundering and of representing General Pinochet. However, these claims were found to be erroneous.
The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) identified the tone of the programme, aired in September 2022, as objectively antisemitic, deploying well-known stereotypes. However, Mr Akunjee himself was not accused of making antisemitic remarks. Press TV, which lost its UK broadcast licence in 2012 due to its Iranian government control, continues to broadcast online and has been criticised for disseminating antisemitic and Holocaust-denying material.
The episode, led by former Labour MP Chris Williamson, included Professor David Miller and was titled ‘Mishcon de Reya – Zionist Law Firm’. The SDT described it as an attack on Mishcon de Reya, portraying it as a Jewish firm promoting a pro-Israel agenda. In the programme, Mishcon was linked with Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, implying he was influenced by Israel.
Mr Akunjee explained that his participation was intended to address strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs), but he discovered the focus was on Mishcon de Reya only upon his arrival at the studio. He incorrectly stated that Mishcon had criminal fines related to money laundering, while in reality, they received a fine from the Solicitors Regulation Authority for breaches of anti-money laundering procedures.
The firm’s managing partner, James Libson, lodged a complaint with the SRA following the broadcast. Mr Akunjee acknowledged his mistake, describing his public error as deeply embarrassing, and requested Press TV to retract or amend his segment. He also issued an apology on Twitter.
The SDT noted that although Mr Akunjee requested removal of the episode, he could have taken further actions upon discerning the programme’s tone and content. The tribunal commented on his failure to adequately specify his remarks, which inadvertently questioned his professional integrity, though they acknowledged these were not made out of recklessness.
Mr Akunjee was fined £6,500, in addition to £30,000 in costs. This sanction follows previous admonishments related to provocative online statements made by him. These incidents reflect ongoing scrutiny of professional conduct within legal practices.
Mr Akunjee’s case underscores the importance of maintaining accuracy and integrity in professional representations, especially in public forums.
