Iraq's Sadr calls on followers to join protests
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 24 August 2015 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Iraq's Sadr calls on followers to join protests, 24 August 2015, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/55ee971115.html [accessed 30 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
August 24, 2015
Iraq's powerful Shi'ite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr has called on his followers to join Friday protests in Baghdad.
Sadr's statement on August 24 is the first direct appeal by a major party leader to participate in the protests, sparked by anger over power cuts during a sweltering heatwave.
The capital and many southern cities have witnessed demonstrations in recent weeks calling for the provision of basic services, the trial of corrupt politicians, and the shakeup of a system riddled with graft and incompetence.
The most recent demonstrations have lasted several days in southern cities including Basra and Hilla.
The protests have been mostly nonsectarian.
Based on reporting by Reuters
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