ERBIL, Kurdistan Region – Iraqi President Barham Salih denied state officials had ordered security forces to shoot protesters and calling for an investigation into their deaths in his first appearance since protests began in Iraq six days ago.
Over 100 protesters have been killed and several thousand more injured in demonstrations calling for improved provision of basic services and an end to rampant state corruption. Protesters nationwide were met with live rounds of ammunition and tear gas from security forces.
Protests seem to have relented following government overtures of employment and housing reform. However, the deadly aftermath of just six days of protests has angered Iraqis, and authorities have promised to launch investigations.
In a televised speech on Monday evening, President Salih denied any orders had been given for protesters to be shot.
“The government and the leadership of the security forces affirms that there were no orders for shooting. This was not a decision from the state or its institutions,” Salih said.
“This is sedition, a crime, and it cannot be overlooked. The blood of our people and security forces are not up for political rhetoric, nor adventurism,” added the President.
“The targeting of peaceful protesters and security forces with live rounds … is unacceptable in the Iraq that we chose and agreed to be democratic, in which rights and freedoms are guaranteed.”
All those who have violated the law have to “submit to the state” and be held accountable in courts, the President added.
Salih acknowledged protester grievances, including a lack of basic services, high rates of unemployment, and financial and administrative corruption that has “hindered” Iraqi development, but warned against foreign “saboteurs” from exercising their influence on the demonstrations.
“These protests came against the background of despair, darkness, and a public feeling that the country needs reform,” Salih said.
“Preserve the peacefulness of your protests, and don’t let saboteurs steal from you this homeland. Don’t let anyone steal your dreams or demands.”
The President announced steps to be implemented in the short term, including the “opening of a judicial investigation” into the violence, as announced earlier today by Iraq’s Supreme Judicial Council.
“Special authorities, without a doubt, have to hold those responsible for spilling Iraqi blood responsible.”
The President also voiced support for a suggestion by Ayatollah Sistani, the highest Shiite religious authority of Iraq, for forming a committee composed of independent, qualified Iraqis to engage with protesters to present a “roadmap” for reform.
As a third step, the President suggested discussions between Iraq’s political blocs to “form a national parliamentary bloc” to support and oversee reform, the fight against corruption, and the provision of services.
To tackle state corruption – one of the main sources of protester grievance – Salih suggested “activating the role” of integrity courts, supporting their independence and taking corruption cases to them with no “immunity” for anyone.
Iraq has had “enough” of violence, wars, and internal violence, the President said, calling for “de-escalation” and patience that government proposals will be realized.
