Iraq water minister dismisses project director in Dhi Qar

DHI QAR, Iraq — Iraq’s Water Resources Minister Muntha al-Tamimi has dismissed Ahmed Jabir Zaydan, the director of the Hurriya–Daggara Project in Dhi Qar, the ministry said. A new official was assigned on an interim basis. The ministry said the decision followed what it described as clear negligence in the post and numerous complaints from local residents. It came after al-Tamimi visited the Deghara, Sadr Deghara, Afak and Al-Badr districts in Dhi Qar. During the field tour, the minister inspected the area’s water conditions and residents’ needs, according to the statement. Al-Tamimi also ordered an increase in the amount of water released into the Shatt al-Hilla. The ministry said the move was aimed at helping drinking water reach the affected areas and meeting local requirements.