Latvian anti‑corruption chief Jēkabs Straume resigns ahead of term end

Jēkabs Straume, head of Latvia’s Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau (KNAB), submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Krišjānis Kariņš and Saeima Speaker Daiga Mieriņa, effective 1 August 2024, before the expiry of his mandate. Straume said he is retiring early after reaching the age and service length required for a pension.

During his nine‑year tenure, Straume highlighted the bureau’s work in strengthening anti‑corruption systems, improving oversight of political party financing and pre‑election campaigning, and investigating high‑profile cases, including foreign officials’ bribery. He praised the professional, cohesive team he led and thanked staff and partners in Latvia and abroad. Ineta Cīrule, currently KNAB’s deputy head, will assume the chief’s duties from 2 August as acting director.