Baghdad: Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi has declared corruption as the most serious threat currently facing the state, emphasizing that the government is engaged in a fierce battle to combat it and eradicate its sources. Al-Zaidi made these remarks while receiving the head of the Parliamentary Integrity Committee, Taha Hatif al-Difai, along with committee members.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, a statement from al-Zaidi’s media office highlighted the Prime Minister’s assertion that the state’s foundation relies on two fundamental pillars: the law and integrity. He reiterated that corruption poses a significant danger to these pillars and emphasized the government’s commitment to eliminating its sources.

Al-Zaidi underscored the necessity of unifying efforts and enhancing cooperation between the legislative and executive branches to support anti-corruption measures and prosecute those involved. He detailed the government’s strategy of adopting pre- and post-audit procedures for government contracts, based on the principle that prevention is better than cure, to curb waste and safeguard public funds.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the crucial role of the Parliamentary Integrity Committee in backing the fight against corruption, monitoring its cases, and working towards eradicating its manifestations and causes.

The Chairman and members of the Parliamentary Integrity Committee expressed their unwavering support for anti-corruption efforts and the prosecution of corrupt individuals. They highlighted the significance of passing the Internal Oversight Authority Law, which has already undergone its first reading in Parliament. Additionally, they emphasized the need to scrutinize previous government contracts suspected of corruption or involving inflated costs, and urged state institutions to expedite their response to the Integrity Committee’s requests for essential documents and information on priority contracts and cases.