A senior Iraqi official with the duty of reconstructing postwar communities has been relieved of his duties due to corruption suspicions. Mohammed Shia Al Sudani (Iraqi Prime Minister) fired Mohamed Ali Ani the official in charge of the state-run funds raised for the Iraq reconstruction program which was dutied to rebuild areas that have been damaged due to conflict. He was relieved of his duties on Sunday due to the corruption allegations against the mismanagement of funds.
The reconstruction fund was established in the year 2015 for areas damaged by terror attacks. The fund’s purpose was to restore the beauty of the Iraqi infrastructure. Its introduction came during periods of conflict and war between Iraqi security forces and ISIS militants, who at the time had occupied a large portion of the country.
Due to the introduction and assistance of the US coalition, Iraq was able to conquer ISIS in late 2017 after years of battle that left many areas of Iraq still damaged and impacted by the conflict. The war left many people stranded without homes, access to clean water, health care, electricity etc.
In early 2018 Iraq appealed for funds at a Kuwait summit to assist in the reconstruction of the nation and asked for $88 billion. They were able to accumulate $30 billion in loans and investments following this appeal. Iraqi development plans also continue to receive large revenue for numerous recent projects, such as the Jadat Baghdad development.
Also Read: Agreement signed for development of $1bn Jadat Baghdad (Baghdad Avenue) in Iraq
Audit Investigations Reveals Fund Mismanagement in Iraq Reconstruction Plan
Various government organizations were built to undergo an audit to identify the areas whereby the funds were allocated. This was done on suspicion of corruption and mismanagement of funds. The termination of Mr. Al Ani was one of the recommended moves approved by the Prime Minister in light of the audit. The government has now prepared a precise plan to introduce heightened scrutiny to relieve inefficient employees who did not make significant use of the public fund.
More than five years later construction in the affected areas has now continued, however, it will need time and focus to gain steam and momentum.
