Sulaymaniyah: Independent Kurdish politician Mahmoud Othman has raised concerns about the political and partisan motivations behind recent events in Sulaymaniyah, suggesting they were not driven by judicial reasons.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Othman commented on the arrests of Shaswar Abdul Wahid, leader of the New Generation Movement, and Lahur Sheikh Jangi, leader of the People's Front Party, indicating that these actions were linked to political and partisan dynamics rather than specific legal imperatives.

Othman elaborated on the situation, noting that Iraqi society is heavily armed, which undermines any civil or legal governance aimed at achieving stability. He expressed concern over the intertwining of judicial decisions with political interests, warning of the potential dangers this poses to both the country and the Kurdistan Region.

Highlighting the differences in the two arrests, Othman pointed out that while the arrest of Shaswar Abdul Wahid was conducted peacefully, the apprehension of Lahur Sheikh Jangi led to violent clashes, resulting in casualties and injuries. He criticized the escalation to armed confrontation, suggesting that surrender would have been a preferable option for Jangi, who was already wanted by the judiciary.

Othman emphasized the necessity of disarming all factions, including those associated with political parties, to prevent future conflicts. He stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring an independent judiciary to maintain peace and order.

The arrests occurred earlier this month, with Lahur Sheikh Jangi being detained on the 22nd following clashes in Sulaymaniyah, and Shaswar Abdul Wahid being arrested on the 12th in the German village in Sulaymaniyah Governorate.