State broadcaster to get new leadership
Parliament votes to dismiss Nabil Jasim as head of Iraqi Media Network
BAGHDAD — The Iraqi Parliament voted on Sunday to remove Nabil Jasim from his position as the head of the Iraqi Media Network. This decision was preceded by the inclusion of a special provision for his ouster on the meeting’s agenda.
TheParliamentary Media Department announced, “Following the introduction of a special clause dedicated to this matter, the House of Representatives has decided to relieve Mr. Nabil Jasim of his duties as the leader of the Iraqi Media Network.”
Further details provided by the department highlighted that, during its 13th session, the Parliament elected to add a vote of no confidence against the Network’s President to its agenda, signaling a critical juncture in the oversight of the nation’s media operations.
The lead-up to Jasim’s dismissal involved a grilling from members of parliament, focusing on various aspects of his tenure, including alleged affiliations and decision-making processes at the network. His defense cited judicial rulings clearing him of the charges brought against him, portraying the proceedings as an attempt at political marginalization.
This outcome is the culmination of a prolonged period of examination and controversy surrounding Jasim, who faced allegations regarding his past affiliations and management decisions. Despite defenses from independent MPs decrying the interrogation as politically motivated, the parliament moved forward with the vote.
964media had exclusively reported a strategic realignment within the Iraqi political landscape, with major political blocks within the Coordination Framework maneuvering for influence over the Iraqi Media Network. This power struggle pointed to a broader ambition among these factions to assert control over state media channels, especially in the vacuum left by the Sadrist Movement’s withdrawal from active political roles.
The change in leadership at the IMN, as indicated by sources, was part of a broader plan, delayed for strategic reasons but aimed at redistributing control among key political factions. The move to oust Jasim was seen as aligning with the Coordination Framework’s objectives under the government led by Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani since November 2022.
The Iraqi Media Network, with its considerable influence through television, radio, and print media, as well as a training institute, is a pivotal institution in shaping public discourse in Iraq. The dismissal of its head underscores ongoing political dynamics and the significant role media governance plays in the broader contest for power and influence within the country.