In fact, the strict Rules No. 516, regulating the appointment to this position, have not changed since the "peaceful" 2016, when they were formulated by the Cabinet of Ministers. Until now, the position of head of KNAB has caused serious political conflicts. This position has been held by: Guntis Rutkis (2003-2004), Alexey Loskutov (2004-2008), Normunds Vilnitis (2009-2011), Yaroslav Streļčenok (2011-2016), and finally the current head Jakabs Straume (since 2017). He can be called an outstanding record holder in terms of survival and maneuvering between various, sometimes opposing, political forces. ## Income and Expenses of a Young Pensioner The examination of the official's declaration, which Jakabs Straume submitted annually to the State Revenue Service, cannot fail to surprise. With a salary of €90,234.44 in 2025 (€7,519.53 per month), the head of the anti-corruption agency had relatively modest savings of €6,366.30. However, his debt obligations amounted to €102,171.30 – which slightly exceeded his annual income. In public finances, such a ratio of income to debt serves as an obvious indicator of distress. Nevertheless, Mr. Straume declared the presence of real estate in the Tīnūži and Ikšķile municipalities, a BMW car, and a motorcycle. Soon, E. Straume (1976) will become a young pensioner. Employees of KNAB, upon reaching the age of 50 and having at least 20 years of special experience, are granted a service pension (privileged) of 55% of their average monthly salary for the last five years. The maximum amount of such a pension is limited to 80% of the previous earnings. ## Keeper of Secrets Anyone wishing to follow the career of the aforementioned gentlemen must provide documents: * of higher education and qualification as a lawyer; * of excellent knowledge of the state language, proficiency in at least two foreign languages at level B. The applicant will need to prove "relevant work experience" obtained either in public administration or in law enforcement agencies. Of course, the candidate will also be asked about the criteria for access to state secrets... And then comes the most interesting part – approval by the Saeima. By the way, it was precisely due to party disagreements that the late Juta Strīke was unable to become a full-fledged head of KNAB in her time, which did not prevent her from later making a bright, albeit brief, career in politics. ## For Reference **The Bureau for Prevention and Combating Corruption** of Latvia (Korupcijas novēršanas un apkarošanas birojs, KNAB) is an independent state body. It combines the functions of an anti-corruption agency, investigative body, and political party financing controller. Among other things, KNAB investigates the receipt and giving of bribes, abuse of office, and influence peddling. KNAB employees have the right to conduct operational investigative activities; initiate criminal proceedings; conduct searches and arrests; and transfer criminal cases to the prosecutor's office for prosecution.