Baghdad: In response to a recent statement by the Supreme Judicial Council, the Ministry of Finance has clarified its role in the process of recovering funds linked to corruption cases. The Ministry emphasized that its responsibilities are confined to the financial aspects and ensuring the recovery of the treasury’s rights.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Ministry of Finance reiterated that any mechanism established for the settlement of amounts owed by those convicted of corruption must ensure the complete repayment of the public treasury’s rights. Such mechanisms should be binding and enforceable, aimed at preserving public funds and the state’s rights. The Ministry further stated that judicial procedures or pardon requests remain under the exclusive jurisdiction of the judiciary, which operates according to established legal protocols.

The Ministry affirmed its commitment to collaborate with the judiciary and relevant oversight bodies to bolster efforts in safeguarding public funds in alignment with the law. This statement comes after the Supreme Judicial Council addressed corruption cases, particularly mentioning the “theft of the century,” where Noor Zuhair is identified as the primary suspect.

The judiciary’s report highlighted that the issue of applying the amnesty law to the accused remains unresolved. It awaits an agreement with the Ministry of Finance on a mechanism to settle outstanding amounts with the convicted individual or their lawyer. The Ministry of Finance was consulted for its input on this matter, as it is directly affected, and the Minister’s approval is necessary under the amended amnesty law. However, the court has yet to receive a response from the Ministry.