Kirkuk: The head of the Integrity Commission, Mohammed Ali al-Lami, has made it clear that no immunity or red lines will be tolerated when it comes to the application of the law. This statement was made during his engagement with the administration and staff of the Commission's investigation office in the Kirkuk Governorate.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Integrity Commission issued a press release highlighting al-Lami's commendation of the high-quality operations conducted by the office's personnel in recent times. Al-Lami praised their efforts in combating corruption and pursuing those who perpetrate it. The meeting also addressed visions and proposals intended to enhance the investigative office's operational mechanisms, aiming to overcome obstacles faced by the staff. These efforts are poised to expedite case resolution, strengthen cooperation with relevant departments, and achieve optimal results in combating corruption and protecting public funds.
The statement further elaborated on al-Lami's assertion that public funds are a collective trust, and any infringement on them is an attack on the rights of all Iraqis. He underscored that the Commission's work should deter anyone from misusing state resources. Corrupt individuals will not find protection from the law's full force and will instead face punishment and social ostracism.
Al-Lami described Kirkuk as a model of Iraqi diversity, requiring unified efforts to protect public funds and promote integrity within the city. He assured that the Commission's efforts are supported by the law, the people's backing, and coordination with the three branches of government and state institutions. This dispels any illusions of impunity and bolsters the state's capacity to fight corruption. The statement emphasized that there is no immunity or red lines in enforcing the law, provided the work remains within legal frameworks and free from personal biases or development obstructions.
The press release also noted al-Lami's visit to the Kirkuk Court of Appeals where he met with its President, Judge Qasim Muhammad Sulaiman, to discuss ways to enhance cooperation between the Commission and the judiciary. They focused on speeding up the resolution of corruption cases and ensuring the provision of necessary evidence for issuing appropriate rulings. Al-Lami highlighted that the judiciary is crucial in state-building and establishing the rule of law.
Judge Sulaiman praised the cooperation between the integrity judges and the Commission's investigation office in Kirkuk, affirming that the judiciary evaluates cases based on evidence alone. Both the judiciary and the Integrity Commission have maintained their independence and impartiality, steering clear of biased influences, political rivalries, and conflicts.