Iraqi Groups Call for Investigation Into 2019 Protest Comments

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The National Movement for Legitimate Democratic Rights criticized comments by parliament member and Badr Organization head Hadi al-Amiri describing the 2019 October protests as "sedition," saying the remarks were irresponsible. It said the protests reflected Iraqi demands for reform and change and that young people died during the demonstrations, while those responsible for the deaths had not been identified. Ali al-Abadi, head of the Iraqi Human Rights Center, called on the Supreme Judicial Council and relevant institutions to open a serious and transparent investigation into the October events and identify those responsible in accordance with the law. He said al-Amiri's account of a "resistance" role in suppressing the protests should be examined by the judiciary without political considerations. The center also called on the United Nations, international organizations and the International Criminal Court to monitor the case and help ensure that those accused of violations are held accountable. The dispute has returned the legal process concerning security measures during the October protests to public attention.