UN concerened over violent demonstrations in Baghdad

UNAMI notes the statement of Iraqi Prime Minister Abadi in which he affirmed the right of citizens to demonstrate peacefully while abiding by the law and acknowledged the Government’s responsibility to protect demonstrators while protecting the safety and security of citizens.

The right of freedom of peaceful assembly is the cornerstone of democracy and must be respected and protected by citizens, Government, and security forces at all times and in all circumstances. Citizens have the right to express their opinions, to request reforms and changes, and to have their voices heard – but they must do so peacefully and in full compliance with the law. The Government and Security Forces must respect and protect the right of citizens to stage peaceful public protests and must act with restraint.

UNAMI further welcomes Prime Minister Abadi’s institution of a public inquiry into yesterday’s tragic events and to establish what took place.

Governor of Baghdad Ali al-Tamimi announced that four protestors were killed, and 320 others were wounded in the demonstrations that took place on Saturday at Baghdad’s Green Zone, while called on Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi to order investigation into the incident.

Source: United Nations Information Center (UNIC) - Tehran

**1771