Iraqi MP Disqualified from Elections After Criticizing Iran-Backed Militias

An outspoken independent candidate, known for his criticism of Iran-backed militias, has been disqualified from Iraq's national elections next month, raising concerns about the state of political freedom in the country.

Sajad Salim, a member of parliament and a former activist in pro-democracy protests that swept Iraq in 2019, was excluded because he offended worshippers taking part in Shiite rituals for the month of Muharram, according to Iraq's Independent High Electoral Commission, The Caspian Post reports citing foreign media.

Mr Salim offended "the custodians of Hussainiyah processions" that commemorate the death of Imam Hussein, grandson of the Prophet Mohammed, the commission said, without elaborating.

The legislator has not responded to the allegation, but has frequently been critical of Iraq's primarily Shiite militias that operate with the backing of Iran. He has called for an end to the Popular Mobilisation Forces, an umbrella group of government-sanctioned paramilitary groups that mainly comprises Tehran-allied militias.

Mr Salim has a history of crossing swords with authorities. Six years ago he took part in youth-led protests for democratic reform that were met with a heavy-handed response from security forces and the militias.

About 600 protesters and security personnel were killed in the violence, while tens of thousands were injured. Some demonstrators were kidnapped or assassinated, while others reported intimidation. Activists have accused the Iran-backed militias of responsibility for the assassinations, but the Iraqi government and the militias blamed unidentified “third parties”.

In 2022, Mr Salim won a seat in parliament during national elections after standing as an independent candidate. He intended to run November 11 polls in the eastern province of Wasit.