Baghdad: The Federal Integrity Commission and the Integrity Commission of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq have reaffirmed their ongoing collaboration to eliminate escape routes for corrupt officials, ensuring that no safe haven exists for individuals involved in corruption.
According to Iraqi News Agency, the two commissions released a joint statement emphasizing their shared commitment to safeguarding public resources, protecting state institutions, and upholding integrity and transparency. The commissions aim to enhance cooperation and coordination, aligning with the Constitution and relevant laws, such as the amended Integrity and Illicit Gains Law No. 30 of 2011 and the amended Kurdistan Region Integrity Commission Law No. 3 of 2011. This initiative seeks to improve the integration of oversight bodies across Iraq.
The joint statement followed a visit by the head of the Federal Integrity Commission and his delegation to the Kurdistan Region, invited by the head of the Kurdistan Region Integrity Commission. The visit featured several meetings focused on strengthening cooperation in the fight against corruption.
According to the statement, both commissions expressed gratitude for the support from the judiciary, legislature, and executive branches at federal and regional levels. They highlighted the judiciary’s role as the constitutional and legal framework for investigations and prosecutions. Additionally, they acknowledged the backing from the Presidency of the Republic and the Presidency of the Kurdistan Region, which empowers oversight institutions to function independently and effectively.
The commissions emphasized the necessity of intensifying the deterrent role of anti-corruption institutions throughout Iraq. They stressed the importance of developing mechanisms to enforce arrest warrants and judicial orders, ensuring that geographical boundaries do not hinder coordination or allow individuals to evade legal proceedings. They urged joint efforts to apprehend wanted individuals and bring them to justice.
Furthermore, the commissions asserted that there is no refuge for corrupt individuals or their illicit gains. They highlighted that cooperation between oversight bodies in the federal government and the Kurdistan Region is crucial in preventing the concealment of corruption proceeds and in recovering such funds for the public treasury.
The statement also mentioned an agreement to enhance cooperation in training, awareness, and preventive measures to improve oversight efficiency and promote a culture of integrity and accountability.
The commissions believe that integrating oversight roles between Baghdad and Erbil strengthens citizens’ trust in state institutions, supports the national economy, and creates a secure environment for investment. They concluded that protecting public funds and combating corruption are national responsibilities that transcend administrative boundaries, calling for collective efforts to enforce the law and prevent corrupt individuals from evading justice.