The Iraqi caretaker government’s move to review the salaries and allowances of the three presidential offices has stirred a lot of criticism. Many people say the decision came too late, especially since the government’s term has already ended.
The Ministerial Council for the Economy approved steps to reduce government spending. These include cutting allocations for the three presidencies and sharply limiting official travel.
Salam Al-Radi, a government employee, said reviewing salaries is a good idea, but any changes should match the size and importance of the work being done. He pointed out that employees in productive ministries help bring in real revenue for the state and said their efforts should be considered when salaries are reviewed, just like everyone else’s.
Confirming this view, teacher Majida Al-Maliki said that in most countries, salaries are set according to clear laws. These systems look at productivity, effort, and results, not just job titles.
On the legal side, expert Ali Al-Tamimi explained that the caretaker government is still allowed to take certain actions. He said the outgoing prime minister can issue decisions that prepare the ground for the next government. “The Council of Ministers is an institution, not individuals,” he said, adding that such decisions are legally valid even during a caretaker period.
