Iraqi lawmaker says corruption file completed on Financial Audit Office

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi lawmaker Hikmat Ahmed al-Saidi said a file documenting suspected administrative and financial irregularities in several units of the country's Financial Audit Office has been completed and will be referred to the relevant authorities for legal action. Speaking at a press conference inside the parliament building, al-Saidi said the audit office requires a comprehensive review based on specific names and figures. He added that the file will be made public and that formal requests for investigations will be submitted to the Integrity Commission and the Public Prosecution. The lawmaker alleged that some officials within the office had abused their positions to grant privileges to individuals close to decision-makers through the use of influence. He did not name the officials or provide supporting documentation during the briefing. The remarks come amid growing criticism of the performance of audit offices across ministries and state institutions. Iraqi authorities have previously reported financial irregularities and losses in sectors including energy, defense, trade and public procurement. No further details on the file or the planned referrals were immediately available.