The new Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority’s law recently approved by the Council of Ministers grants the Authority the power to make financial settlements with individuals or entities who have committed corruption crimes. This law aims to combat corruption, protect public funds, and ensure accountability. The president of the Authority, Mazin Al-Kahmous, stated that these settlements will help reduce the economic and social consequences of corruption and recover embezzled funds for the state treasury through alternative criminal justice mechanisms.
Al-Kahmous emphasized that this new law will enhance the Authority’s role in fighting financial and administrative corruption, safeguarding public funds, and preserving the country’s resources and achievements. The legislation reflects the leadership’s commitment to developing laws that enforce accountability for corruption crimes and recover funds stolen through illegal activities. The law also ensures the independence of the Authority and grants it the necessary powers to carry out its duties with neutrality, reinforcing the Kingdom’s position in the global fight against corruption.
The new Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority Law consists of 24 articles outlining various regulatory provisions related to investigating corruption crimes, such as bribery, misappropriation of public funds, and abuse of power. The law defines the Authority’s responsibilities in administrative oversight, investigation, prosecution, integrity protection, and promoting transparency. It also emphasizes the importance of international collaboration with regional and global entities in combating financial and administrative corruption.
The law includes provisions for a criminal investigative and prosecutorial unit, as well as a council responsible for the unit’s employee affairs. It also addresses punitive measures for public officials convicted of corruption crimes, such as dismissal from public office and provisions on illicit enrichment and escape outside the country. The law encourages citizens, residents, and public and private entities to work together with the Authority to protect integrity and fight corruption.
The Authority is committed to providing protection to individuals who report or provide information about corruption crimes, in accordance with regulated provisions. The President of the Authority expressed gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince for their support in enhancing the Authority’s efforts to promote transparency, combat financial and administrative corruption, and protect integrity. Overall, the new law demonstrates the Kingdom’s dedication to fighting corruption, ensuring accountability, and protecting public funds through effective legislation and enforcement mechanisms.
