Baghdad: Newspapers in Baghdad are concentrating on discussions around the completion of the cabinet and the resolution of the Popular Mobilization Forces’ (PMF) service and retirement law. According to National Iraqi News Agency, the political forces are emphasizing the importance of completing the cabinet to support political stability and addressing the PMF law, alongside other crucial issues, such as the pollution of the Tigris River.
Al-Zawraa newspaper, associated with the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate, reported on the intensified discussions among political forces to expedite the completion of the remaining ministerial positions in Ali Faleh al-Zaidi’s government. The State of Law Coalition has submitted candidate names for the Ministries of Interior and Higher Education to the Prime Minister. Hisham al-Rikabi, director of the Coalition leader’s office, refuted reports about any agreements involving Nouri al-Maliki relinquishing the Ministry of Interior.
The newspaper highlighted a meeting between Nour
i al-Maliki and Haider al-Fawadi, where they discussed the importance of coordination among political forces to confront challenges. They emphasized restricting weapons to the state and strengthening state authority, alongside addressing economic challenges to ensure citizens’ interests and economic stability.
Moreover, Al-Sabah newspaper, published by the Iraqi Media Network, spotlighted the focus on finalizing the PMF service and retirement law. The legislation aims to secure the legal, professional, and retirement rights of PMF members and bolster the institutional framework. MP Mohammed al-Baldawi highlighted the importance of this law for guaranteeing fighters’ rights and financial entitlements.
The law also aims to unify security decision-making and restrict weapons to the state, as stated by MP Youssef al-Kalabi. Another objective involves restructuring the PMF to maintain security institutions free from political appointments, as emphasized by MP Ahmed Shaheed.
Al-Zaman newspaper brought attention
to the pollution in the Tigris River, citing around 500 pollution sources. The Green Iraq Observatory reported severe environmental violations, with pollutants discharged directly into the river, posing health threats. The Diyala River is a significant source of pollution, with hazardous compounds detected, affecting areas like Basra, Baghdad, Wasit, Maysan, and Dhi Qar.
These issues highlight the urgent need for political coordination and legislative action to address the intertwined challenges of governance, security, and environmental sustainability in Iraq.