Al-Sudani: Combating corruption is a difficult task that is similar to fighting terrorism

INA-  Baghdad


Media Office of the Prime Minister said in a statement obtained by the Iraqi News Agency INA that Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani Reaffirms Government Support for Provincial Councils and the Integration of Oversight Roles with Federal Anti-Corruption Agencies to Safeguard Public Funds

The statement read “Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani inaugurated today, Thursday, the first forum for provincial councils and governorates, held in collaboration with the Commission of Integrity and the Higher Commission for Coordination between Governorates. The forum, themed "Integration of Oversight Roles as a Fundamental Pillar for Performance Evaluation for Better Services and Sustainable Development," was attended by oversight bodies, parliamentary committees, governors, heads of provincial councils, advisors from the Prime Minister’s Office, the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers, the Federal Board of Supreme Audit, various legal unions, and relevant local and international organizations.”

It also said “The forum aims to activate the oversight role of provincial councils in line with government priorities and the Integrity Commission’s mandate to combat corruption. It also seeks to coordinate efforts between the Higher Commission for Coordination between Governorates and the Commission of Integrity to strengthen local governments' oversight roles.”

It further said “In his speech, Prime Minister Al-Sudani emphasized the need for practical and field-based steps in the work of provincial councils and executive bodies to meet the people's demands for tangible achievements.”

“The Prime Minister noted that the completion of local government structures following successful provincial council elections and the establishment of a legal framework for their work necessitate organized public fund expenditure to protect public interests, activate oversight roles, combat corruption, and advance the economic reforms initiated by the government,” the statement stated.

“Prime Minister Al-Sudani reiterated that the government's prioritization of anti-corruption measures reflects the citizens' desire to enhance their trust in the state. He called for this forum to convene regularly for reviews and to address challenges, assuring that the government would provide full support to overcome obstacles,” it said.

The statement included Key points from Prime Minister Al-Sudani’s speech, they are as follows:

"Emphasizing the support for the oversight, legislative, and policy-making roles of provincial councils to ensure an environment that curtails corruption.

Ensuring the implementation of the Higher Commission for Coordination between Governorates’ priorities in promoting digital transformation, improving services, monitoring service institutions, and continuously evaluating performance.

Encouraging precise work and adherence to instructions, stressing that strict legal measures for combating corruption does not mean injustice.
Stating that corruption, like terrorism, must be combated and that while terrorism no longer poses a significant threat to the state, corruption undermines the credibility of state institutions.

Combating corruption is not impossible. It can be achieved through practical steps based on law, effective tools, and experienced decision-making.
  Delaying projects under the pretext of scrutiny constitutes a form of corruption and waste of resources.

We will support the councils in implementing the national strategy for integrity and anti-corruption and taking proactive measures against corruption.
 
Preventing corruption strengthens public trust in government institutions and their service delivery.
 
The correct application of the law enhances the councils' work and demonstrates the seriousness and effectiveness of public service officials.
 
It is imperative to adhere to the requirements of the Federal Board of Supreme Audit Law, the Integrity Commission Law, and the Illicit Gains Law, as well as financial disclosure requirements, to facilitate anti-corruption efforts.
 
Reports from oversight bodies will be used as as benchmarks for assessing leadership and performance and for appointing or dismissing officials.
 
Citizens across Iraq expect significant outcomes and no opportunity for action should be wasted."