Baghdad: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani affirmed that reforming state institutions and improving their performance has been a central focus of the government since its first day in office, stressing that implementing the government program requires effective tools and competent leadership.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, in his speech at the Government Performance Evaluation Conference, Al-Sudani stated that the government began evaluating senior state leadership upon assuming power through a specialized committee comprising university professors and experts, under his direct supervision. He added that the evaluation process was based on integrity and impartiality, free from targeting or personal bias.

He explained that the committee conducted 1,135 evaluations, resulting in the dismissal of 41 director generals and the confirmation of others, while the process also pushed officials to follow up on projects in the field. The committee further recommended that six ministers be included in a cabinet reshuffle, with Al-Sudani confirming the government’s commitment to carrying out this reshuffle as part of its program-despite some political forces nominating replacements of a lower caliber than the current ministers.

Al-Sudani noted that financial and administrative corruption indicators were addressed immediately, leading to four ministers being referred to the judiciary over suspicions and negative indicators surrounding their performance. He added that the results of the investigations had been approved and submitted to the competent judicial authorities.

The Prime Minister criticized the quota system in appointing senior leadership positions within ministries, calling on all parties not to exploit government posts for electoral or political purposes.