Iraqi speaker condemns media smear campaigns

Iraqi parliament speaker Usama al-Nujayfi Baghdad - Najlaa el-Taaei Speaker of Iraq's House of Representatives Usama al-Nujayfi has criticised a media campaign which he suggests is aimed at "tarnishing his image." Al-Nujayfi states that some publications are printing "fabricated reports" about him, and are "trying to break his image." The Iraqi official referred to comments on the social networking site, Twitter, where an Italian newspaper was allegedly posting stories regarding his wealth, suggesting that Nujayfi had "more money before he began his political career". However, it was later established that the newspaper did not actually exist. The speaker signalled that the act was being carried out by "enemies" who are trying to "ruin him in front of Iraqi people." He affirmed that their "failed attempts only but highlighted his innocence." Usama al-Nujayfi has urged media channels and publications to refrain from false reports, and to exercise caution when it comes to reporting on politicians, adding that it is "vital to avoid trying to tarnish reputations for political gains."