Baghdad: The Cabinet has taken decisive action by terminating the appointments of the head of the Federal Civil Service Council and his deputy, while also implementing a series of new decisions. The Cabinet, in its latest session, authorized the State Oil Marketing Company (SOMO) to import gas oil for the Ministry of Electricity, marking a significant move in securing energy supplies.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi presided over the eleventh regular session of the Cabinet, where developments in the country were discussed and agenda items reviewed. The session commenced with discussions on the Coordination Framework meeting, which showed strong government support and anti-corruption measures, emphasizing that no corrupt individual would receive protection.

The Prime Minister directed ministers to identify and dismiss any undersecretary or director general suspected of corruption, holding ministers accountable for retaining such individuals. Furthermore, in preparation for the Arba’een pilgrimage, the Cabinet allocated 52.5 billion dinars to relevant authorities and arranged for 2,400 buses to assist pilgrims’ transportation needs.

To further bolster the energy sector, the Cabinet empowered SOMO to import gas oil for the Ministry of Electricity. It also mandated the registration of government and private generators on the central platform, Ur, ensuring better management of electricity generation.

In a move to resolve residential issues, the Cabinet approved the transfer of ownership of units in the Al-Rahab residential complex, with the Basra Municipality tasked with investigating any discrepancies in the process. The Council also amended contract regulations to prevent the renewal of performance bonds if payments exceed bond value.

Environmental oversight improvements were addressed with the approval of the draft First Amendment to the Regulations for the Control of Ozone-Depleting Substances. Additionally, the Council authorized the negotiation of a joint financing letter with the United Nations World Food Programme for a climate resilience project in southern Iraq.

The Cabinet also focused on enhancing international cooperation by authorizing the Minister of Trade to negotiate agreements with Turkmenistan, Slovenia, and Romania in various sectors. Finally, the Council terminated the appointments of the Federal Civil Service Council’s Chairman and deputy, instructing the Integrity Commission to address violations reported by the audit team.