Baghdad: Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako stated that Iraq is a country of immense importance, not only because of its geographical location, its historical identity, its civilizations and resources, but also because of the vitality of its people, their ethnic and religious diversity, and the radical thinking and creativity of its sons and daughters.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, he explained that after the fall of the previous regime in 2003, Iraqis aspired to a new, secure, stable, democratic, and sovereign Iraq, with a civil system that would ensure equality for all citizens and prioritize their interests above all else. However, what transpired was a system of sectarian power-sharing and tribal sheikhdoms, which paved the way for the bitter experience of ISIS, legalized corruption, spread bribery, and established militias that, over time, became more powerful than the state, driving Iraqis, especially the elite, to emigrate.
In a message, Sako stated that today, after 22 years of experience and the recent parliamentary elections, as we prepare to welcome the new year of 2026, shouldn’t we seriously revisit the essence of the change that occurred in 2003 and its intended purpose? This would constitute a courageous step towards correction and reconciliation. Crises are not resolved by force, but rather by embracing contemporary culture-a more rational and realistic culture that prioritizes service, social, cultural, legal, and economic institutions, similar to those in developed nations, through dialogue, understanding, and the search for common ground. He pointed out that respecting the rule of law and implementing the concept of citizenship necessitates amending the current constitution to protect the rights and freedoms of all citizens as true and equal partners in the nation.
He stressed the importance of restricting weapons to the state and making this a priority for the next government, as armed factions do not build a state. He also emphasized the need to reject unilateralism, preoccupation with private interests, and the struggle for power and “representation.” He further highlighted the need for a strong and developed economy through concrete steps, serious monitoring of corruption, and the recovery of stolen funds for the state treasury.
He emphasized that delaying the formation of the government does not serve the country. Therefore, it is imperative to expedite the formation of a new government that reflects the aspirations of the Iraqi people-a government with sovereignty and decision-making power, capable of restoring Iraq’s well-being and prestige, and one that strives to implement justice, equality, and integrity, address failures and crises, and provide services through actions, not just promises.