Muthanna: The resigned governor of Muthanna, Muhannad al-Atabi, settled the controversy surrounding the circumstances of the Muthanna Council session held today, in which the Council announced its vote to accept al-Atabi’s resignation.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Atabi stated in a video recording from inside his office that he did not submit any resignation or request to the provincial council. He learned of his supposed resignation through social media channels. Al-Atabi mentioned that he attended the provincial council building under the assumption of a questioning session, only to be taken aback by the council’s decision. He emphasized the seriousness of the matter for the province.

Al-Atabi further clarified that while there may have been discussions within political negotiations about his dismissal and finding a replacement, he was not involved in such negotiations and did not resign. He held the provincial council accountable for moving forward with the process to open nominations and elect a new governor.

He expressed his intention to seek legal recourse by obtaining a court order from the Federal Court to stop what he described as the council’s illegal procedures. Following that, he plans to approach the competent criminal courts for further action.

In his message to the members of the Muthanna Provincial Council, Al-Atabi stressed that political decisions should not be enforced by force but should proceed through legal means via the Iraqi judiciary. He affirmed his commitment to continue managing the province and argued that political maneuvers would not benefit Muthanna or its residents.

Earlier in the day, the Muthanna Provincial Council announced its acceptance of al-Atabi’s resignation and subsequently voted to elect Ahmed Manfi Jawda as the new governor.