Erbil: During a pivotal meeting with Nechirvan Barzani, the head of the Integrity Commission emphasized the absence of sanctuary for corrupt individuals and their ill-gotten gains. The head of the Integrity Commission, Mohammed Ali al-Lami, and the President of the Kurdistan Region, Nechirvan Barzani, engaged in talks aimed at enhancing collaboration in the fight against corruption and the safeguarding of public funds.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the meeting in Erbil saw al-Lami and Barzani discussing strategies to bolster cooperation between federal and regional oversight bodies. This initiative is rooted in a shared national duty to protect public assets, maintain state institutions, and uphold integrity, transparency, and the rule of law.

Al-Lami lauded the support from the judicial, legislative, and executive branches for oversight bodies’ efforts in combating corruption and recovering misappropriated funds. He highlighted the judiciary’s critical role within the constitutional framework for investigation and prosecution processes, and the Presidency’s backing of oversight institutions, which empowers them to operate independently and effectively.

He underscored the necessity of enhancing the deterrent capabilities of anti-corruption entities across Iraq. This includes developing cooperation mechanisms for the execution of arrest warrants and judicial decisions to ensure legal compliance and prevent evasion by individuals implicated in corruption. Al-Lami stressed the unified pursuit of these individuals to bring them before the judiciary.

Al-Lami reiterated the non-existence of refuge for corrupt activities and proceeds, emphasizing that cooperation between federal and Kurdistan Region oversight bodies is crucial in closing escape routes and recovering funds for the public treasury, in alignment with the constitution and legal frameworks.

Nechirvan Barzani expressed commitment to harmonizing oversight policies, sharing financial disclosure information, and developing communication channels between relevant agencies to enhance national anti-corruption efforts. Barzani highlighted that the integration of oversight roles between Baghdad and Erbil, within constitutional boundaries, strengthens public trust in state institutions, supports the national economy, and fosters a stable investment climate. He asserted that combating corruption is a collective national obligation that transcends administrative divisions, with a unified goal of enforcing law and preventing impunity for corruption.