Presidency denies claims of billion-dinar printing costs for palace documents

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Presidency on Sunday denied reports that it spent more than 4 billion dinars — about $2.86 million — to print a book chronicling presidential activities, saying the total cost was just under $30,000 and handled through official channels.

“A local media outlet published false information regarding the book Presidential Palace Documents, claiming the printing cost exceeded 4 billion dinars,” the presidency said in a statement. “The actual cost is 39,375,000 dinars, as approved by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities — Directorate of Cultural Affairs, which was responsible for printing the book. The amount is documented with official receipts.”

The presidency said the printing was done in accordance with procedures and defended the publication, accusing unnamed Kurdish media outlets of amplifying a “defamation campaign” driven by political motives.

“These claims lack any adherence to the ethics of professional journalism, as they are not based on truth or credible sourcing,” the statement said. “These outlets are linked to failed politicians who are attempting to mislead public opinion and divert attention from their own shortcomings.”

The presidency also said it reserves the right to pursue legal action against what it described as attempts to “undermine the prestige of the state and damage official institutions.”

While the presidency accused Kurdish outlets of circulating false claims, the original report appeared last week on Dijlah TV, a Baghdad-based channel. The report alleged that the printing of Presidential Palace Documents and a companion volume titled Opinions and Articles — both chronicling the writings, speeches, and public appearances of President Abdul Latif Rashid — had cost the treasury about 3.6 billion dinars, or roughly $2.57 million, over four print runs.

The report also questioned the substance of the content, noting it included coverage of meetings, events, and social media posts. Kurdish outlets later reshared Dijlah’s reporting, citing public concern over government spending.

The presidency concluded its statement by urging media outlets to confirm details with official sources and reiterated its willingness to respond to inquiries. “We value the role of the press in delivering facts to the public and stress the importance of verifying news with credible sources,” it said.