What’s behind the anti-corruption crackdown in Iraq?

What’s behind the anti-corruption crackdown in Iraq? A number of senior politicians have been detained in a wave of arrests. For more than two decades, corruption has been a serious issue in Iraq. The oil-rich nation has consistently been ranked as one of the most corrupt in the world. Recommended Stories list of 4 items- list 1 of 4Iraq’s corruption crackdown is a start, not a solution - list 2 of 4Iran shifts economic focus to essentials during war uncertainty - list 3 of 4Who is Ali al-Zaidi, the businessman named as Iraq’s PM-designate? - list 4 of 4Iraq’s parliament approves new Ali al-Zaidi government But this week, its new government has embarked on an unprecedented anti-corruption crackdown. It’s targeting many high-profile politicians and other senior figures accused of making illicit wealth and abuse of office. Iraqis have repeatedly protested against what they say is rampant corruption in their nation. Now, they hope the new government keeps this promise to eradicate what they call a ‘pandemic of fraudulent activities’ at the highest echelons of power. But what are the challenges ahead in this battle? Presenter: Imran Khan Guests: Ahmed Rushdi – President of the think-tank, House of Iraqi Expertise Foundation. Renad Mansour – Deputy Director of the Middle East and North Africa Programme at Chatham House. Manuel Pirino – Regional Advisor for Middle East and North Africa at Transparency International.