Baghdad, Iraq- Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani today sponsored the Internal Audit Conference organized by the Federal Board of Supreme Audit. The conference, held under the theme “Internal Audit is the First Line of Defense Against Corruption and a Pillar of Transparency,” emphasized the crucial role of internal audit mechanisms in ensuring transparency and combating corruption.
In his speech, Al-Sudani stressed that strengthening internal audit systems aligns with the government’s program to restore public trust in governance and the political system. He highlighted internal audit’s importance as a corrective mechanism that ensures integrity, prevents misuse of public funds, and upholds the law’s spirit.
The Prime Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to anti-corruption efforts, citing the November 2024 statement by the Supreme Religious Authority, which highlighted the importance of this focus for advancing economic reforms, job creation, and improving public services.
Key Points from Prime Minister Al-Sudani’s Speech:
- Internal audit is vital in defending against corruption, maintaining institutional integrity.
- 12 trillion Iraqi dinars were allocated for service projects in 2024.
- Achievements over the past two years have inspired optimism and restored citizen trust in the government.
- Corruption is an adaptive challenge, but the government has implemented transparent and decisive anti-corruption measures.
- Internal audit is central to the government’s anti-corruption strategy, with departments being upgraded to strengthen their role.
- Legislative reforms are underway to ensure the operational independence of internal audit directorates.
- Recommendations from the First Anti-Corruption Conference to enhance internal audits are being implemented, including staffing and expertise.
- Performance evaluations of senior officials are critical to maintaining effective government operations and preventing corruption.
- Expedited resolution of criminal cases, particularly high-profile corruption cases, is a government priority.
- The government is focused on fostering a culture of integrity within society, ensuring corruption is isolated and rejected.
- Efforts to uncover corruption have resulted in the recovery of significant stolen public funds.
- Extradition and asset recovery are priorities in Iraq’s international engagements.
