Former Iraqi lawmaker alleges fraud in fertilizer factory project

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Former Iraqi lawmaker Rahim al-Diraci said he has presented documents and evidence to Industry Minister Khalid Battal alleging corruption in a chemical fertilizer production project. Al-Diraci, a former member of parliament, claimed the project, announced as a facility in Basra, was limited to a shed and locally manufactured equipment with a sign labeling it as a chemical fertilizer factory. Al-Diraci said the opening ceremony was attended by the former industry minister and ministry officials. He alleged the contract granted 96 percent of shares to the company in question and 4 percent to the government, and argued that the company did not effectively exist. He also claimed the company imported fertilizer from Turkey and other countries and repackaged it in bags marked "Made in Iraq." He stated the site in Ramadi once housed the Middle East's largest chemical fertilizer factory. Al-Diraci said Minister Battal initially pledged to follow up on the file but later classified the allegations as falling under "commercial competition." No further details were immediately available on any ministry response or investigation.