Anti-corruption body investigates bribery claims involving PM’s advisor

BAGHDAD – Iraq’s Commission of Integrity announced Monday that it has launched an investigation into an audio recording allegedly implicating Abdul Karim Al-Faisal, head of the Advisory Commission in the office of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, in a bribery case. The probe is being conducted in collaboration with the Central Anti-Corruption Criminal Court.

“The Federal Commission of Integrity, under the direction of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and in cooperation and coordination with the judge of the Central Anti-Corruption Criminal Court, has commenced an investigation into the audio recording attributed to the head of the advisory board in the Prime Minister’s office,” the commission said in a statement.

The investigation follows the circulation of an audio clip on Iraqi social media, allegedly featuring Al-Faisal discussing a $1 million bribe. In the recording, the speaker reportedly described the amount as modest compared to a larger bribe allegedly accepted by another minister. The clip sparked widespread debate and speculation online, including unverified claims that Al-Faisal had resigned or been suspended, allegations he has publicly denied.

Al-Faisal dismissed the audio as “fabricated” and “false,” calling it a targeted attack against his reputation and a warning to those committed to combating corruption.