Iraq – Iraqis call on leaders for a way out of political quagmire

Location: Baghdad – Iraq

Language: Arabic

Duration: 00:04:18

Sound: natural

Source: A24 in Baghdad

Restrictions: A24 subscribers

Date: 31/08/ 2022

Storyline:

Reactions of the Iraqi public varied to the political crisis that took a dangerous turn two days ago when the leader of the Sadrist movement, Muqtada al-Sadr, announced his retirement from politics. His supporters stormed several government buildings in the Green Zone before he called on them to withdraw after clashes with supporters of other factions caused several deaths.

Most citizens A24 interviewed unanimously agreed on the need for political parties to agree to a solution to overcome the crisis and reach a consensus, even if they have to make concessions, as it is for the greater good.

Some citizens told A24 they held the Federal Supreme Court responsible for the crisis because it gave two-thirds of Parliament the right to have a session to appoint a prime minister, especially after the resignation of the Sadrist bloc from Parliament.

Shotlist:

– Soundbite (Salah Boshi – Political Analyst):

“We need a sovereign political consensus in order to guarantee political calm. I believe that after this major crisis among political forces that led to separation of general principles in political management, the political forces need a new beginning in which each party presents concessions, in which there is a political consensus that involves a clear image of the next course of action.”

Soundbite (Abu Saad – Iraqi citizen):

“Political blocs and parties should learn their lesson, as the demonstrations were peaceful, and conveyed Iraqis aspirations. The demonstrations and sit-ins were supported by many political movements and dignitaries of Iraqi clans. They have to submit to citizens demands and form a government. They have to compromise for the benefit of Iraqis and respect the public’s decisions.”

Soundbite (Falah Al-Barzanji – Iraqi citizen):

“Many casualties were victims to this violence. Coordination Framework today is proceeding with a Parliamentary session to choose a new president and prime minister.”

Soundbite (Ali Al-Khafaji – Iraqi citizen):

“Coordination Framework is responsible for the seven-month delay in the political process by the blocking third of Parliament. The Federal Court violated the constitution and gave two-thirds of Parliament the right to hold a session, when the constitution stipulates that a session is held through an absolute majority of Parliament.”