Political Interference Hinders Establishment of Wasit Oil Company
Wasit Governorate has accused a political party within the Ministry of Oil of obstructing the establishment of the Wasit Oil Company. In a recent statement, the governorate highlighted that over a decade ago, the Council of Ministers granted approval for the establishment of the company. Despite the passage of time and ongoing efforts from governmental and community stakeholders, progress on this strategic initiative has remained stagnant due to persistent delays.
This year, the governorate received explicit approval from Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Sudani to advance the formation of the company. Over the past six months, local representatives have collaborated with the Ministry of Oil, seeking further actions to finalize the establishment after receiving support from both the Minister of Oil and the Undersecretary. However, the governorate revealed that certain political factions within the Ministry of Oil are actively working to undermine this critical project, which they argue is a legitimate right for the people of Wasit.
The governorate asserted its unwavering commitment to ensure the establishment of the Wasit Oil Company operates within the legal framework, distancing it from the exclusionary policies purportedly upheld by the obstructing parties. They maintain that this enterprise is an entitlement for the residents of Wasit, comparable to oil companies established in other provinces.
Furthermore, the statement expressed concern regarding the limitations imposed on Wasit, which prevent the province from fully exploiting its oil resources to boost production. With potential investments in new and ready oil fields, Wasit has the capability to increase its output to 200,000 barrels per day. However, mismanagement and suspected corruption within the Central Oil Company are viewed as significant barriers to achieving this potential.
In summary, the Wasit Governorate is determined to pursue the establishment of the Wasit Oil Company, viewing it as an essential step toward economic development and an assertion of the rights of its citizens.
