Baghdad: The National Investment Commission has affirmed its respect for the oversight role of Parliament, following the dismissal of its chairman. The Commission announced it had submitted two requests to delay the questioning of the Commission’s chairman to adequately prepare its responses.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Commission detailed the legal and substantive reasons for requesting a postponement of the questioning of Acting Chairman Haider Mohammed Makkiya, which took place today. These reasons are rooted in the principles of transparency and the rule of law. The Commission cited the technical and temporal need to complete necessary paperwork due to the simultaneous occurrence of two interrogations, requiring significant effort and time to coordinate with relevant departments. It emphasized the importance of providing accurate and documented answers, supported by official decisions, in line with Article (36) of the Law of the Council of Representatives and its Formations No. (13) of 2018, as amended.

The Commission also pointed to ongoing legal proceedings, noting a criminal case currently pending before the Iraqi judiciary concerning procedures related to the interrogation. The Commission had previously agreed with the head of the Integrity Commission to share all questions and answers from the interrogations once completed. The Integrity Commission team present at the National Investment Commission was informed of the questions presented in the session.

Furthermore, the Commission reiterated its confidence in the integrity of judicial and parliamentary procedures and its commitment to transparency in managing investment files. It emphasized the importance of protecting public funds and maintaining the prestige of official institutions from illegal targeting. The Commission expressed confidence that the judiciary would provide a clear and explicit resolution on the matter.