In one statement issued late on Saturday night, the United Nations chief called on all parties concerned to “take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation, avoid any further violence and ensure the protection of peaceful protesters and State organizations”.
Freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are fundamental rights – Head of the United Nations
For the second time in a week, on Saturday, protesters stormed parliament in Baghdad, breaching the high-security Green Zone and injuring more than 120 people, the press reported.
Problems at hand
After nine months of political deadlock that prevented the formation of a new government, hundreds of people stormed parliament for the first time on Wednesday.
Reports say the unrest has been triggered by supporters of Iraqi cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, who won a majority of seats last October and who opposes the nomination of a candidate for the election. pro-Iranian for the position of prime minister.
Respect basic rights
Mr. Guterres noted that “freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are fundamental rights that must always be respected”.
“The Secretary-General urges all parties and parties to participate rise above their differences and forms, through peaceful dialogue and inclusionan effective national government should be able to meet the longstanding reform requirements without further delay,” the statement concluded.
