Al-Dhari Calls for Comprehensive Investigation into Looted Funds Since 2003

The secretary-general of the Iraqi National Project, Jamal al-Dhari, called for including anti-corruption measures in all files of public money theft, waste, and smuggling since 2003 until today.

Al-Dhari said in a statement that the steps taken by the judiciary and the Iraqi government to open corruption files and prosecute those involved represent a fundamental step to restore the state's prestige and establish the rule of law.

He stressed the need to reveal the fate of the billions looted from previous budgets and to hold those responsible accountable, demanding a transparent and independent investigation into the funds spent on recent propaganda and election campaigns. 'Real reform cannot be achieved except by applying the law to everyone without exception, so there is no immunity for a corrupt person, no protection for an influential figure, and no consideration for any sectarian or ethnic affiliation when it comes to the rights of Iraqis and their wealth.'

Al-Dhari also demanded applying the 'Where did you get this from?' principle to all officials, position holders, and special grades, and anyone who held public office or accumulated wealth disproportionate to their income, indicating the necessity of dismantling the economies of parties and militias that have swollen from corruption funds. In a related development, strict security measures in the Green Zone, Baghdad security forces on Sunday morning closed the entrances to the fortified Green Zone, which houses the parliament building, government headquarters, and diplomatic missions, coinciding with a wide raid and search campaign that targeted the homes of lawmakers, politicians, and businessmen.

Security sources said these measures come alongside reports of an expanded judicial wanted list targeting senior officials, protection elements, and businessmen on charges of illicit gain and public money waste.

For its part, the Iraqi Bar Association earlier today stated it does not support any effort to defend those detained on corruption charges within the campaign that targeted officials and politicians.