DINAR REVALUATION REPORT : " Next session “tomorrow” HoR will pass the adjustment of salaries due to change rate " , 26 NOV

DINAR REVALUATION REPORT

“A parliamentary movement to include the salary scale in the next session”

Next session “tomorrow” HoR will pass the adjustment of salaries due to change rate which requires change salaries scale.

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Parliamentary Movement to Include Salary Scale in Iraq's Next Session

A significant parliamentary movement is underway in Iraq to include the salary scale in the next session. This initiative aims to address the financial well-being of employees and streamline the budgeting process. As of November 26, 2024, the movement has gained momentum, with key figures and committees pushing for its approval.

Key Points and Developments

Parliamentary Legal Committee's Role

The Parliamentary Legal Committee, led by members like Muhammad Anouz, has been at the forefront of this movement. Anouz has emphasized the importance of financial laws for citizens, urging the government to align the necessary funds to pass these laws. He noted that the lack of sufficient funds has led to the delay of crucial laws, including the pension law, salary scale, social care, and the initiation of hiring.  6

Government's Justifications

Prime Minister Al-Sudani has cited the need to review and amend more than 34 laws as a primary reason for the delay in approving the salary scale. However, the Parliamentary Legal Committee has dismissed this justification, asserting that while the task is difficult, it is not impossible. Committee member Muhammad Al-Khafaji stated that the number of laws requiring amendment should not be a justification for delaying the process.  6

Financial Challenges

The Iraqi government faces significant financial challenges, which have contributed to the delay in addressing salary issues. The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), for instance, has been grappling with a severe financial crisis, exacerbated by the suspension of oil exports in March 2023. Despite efforts to resolve salary delays, the KRG continues to face implementation challenges, including the requirement for KRG employees to open accounts in Iraqi state-owned banks. 2

Public Outrage and Opposition

The issue of salary scales and financial reforms has also sparked public outrage. Reports of a "secret" salary increase for lawmakers have been met with widespread criticism and accusations of backhanded procedures. Opposition MPs and activists have accused supporters of the amendments of introducing changes without prior notice, stoking public anger toward the top legislative body.  4

Budget Discrepancies

The 2024 federal budget has faced criticism for various discrepancies, particularly in the allocation of funds for the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). Hussein Moneis, a member of the Parliamentary Finance Committee, revealed that the total deficit in PMF salaries and discrepancies exceeds one trillion dinars. The government has the authority to make transfers, but the lack of a structured law for the PMF continues to pose challenges. 5

Conclusion

The parliamentary movement to include the salary scale in the next session is a critical step toward addressing the financial well-being of employees in Iraq. Despite the financial challenges and public outrage, key parliamentary committees and members are pushing for its approval. The success of this initiative will depend on the government's ability to align the necessary funds and streamline the legislative process.