Baghdad: The head of the Federal Integrity Commission, Mohammed Ali Al-Lami, issued a warning against misleading public opinion and resorting to defamation tactics as parliamentary elections approach, stressing the vital role of media and oversight bodies in ensuring electoral integrity.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Lami discussed with the head of the Communications and Media Commission, Nofal Abu Ragheef, ways to strengthen cooperation and coordination between the two institutions in combating corruption and protecting public funds. Al-Lami emphasized the pivotal role of the media in promoting a culture of integrity and exposing corruption through free expression, reports, and investigative journalism. He noted that the partnership between the two commissions culminated in the signing of a cooperation agreement aimed at framing joint efforts and opening new avenues for coordination.

Al-Lami praised the efforts of the Communications and Media Commission in developing and regulating the media sector in Iraq. He highlighted that joint coordination contributes to enhancing oversight and preventing attempts to mislead the public or resort to smear campaigns, especially with the upcoming elections. Al-Lami added that the Commission has given special attention to the role of the media during the electoral season by ensuring fair and transparent elections, preventing the misuse of state resources for campaign purposes, and strengthening public confidence in the impartiality of state institutions.

For his part, Abu Ragheef expressed the readiness of the Communications and Media Commission to support the efforts of oversight bodies in combating corruption and pursuing its perpetrators. He pointed to the role played by the joint follow-up team in implementing the cooperation agreement, particularly in strengthening media oversight efforts.