Iraq parliament skips discussion on general amnesty law

BAGHDAD – The Iraqi Parliament was scheduled to discuss the general amnesty law on Saturday, but the latest agenda release this morning excluded this controversial topic.

Initially, yesterday’s agenda suggested a first reading of amendments to the general amnesty law, known as Law No. 27 of 2016, which precludes amnesty for several offenses, including terrorism-related crimes. This law has faced stark opposition, particularly from the Sunni community, who have advocated for amendments, while the Shia community has resisted changes.

The call for a general amnesty law has been a principal demand of Sunni political forces in the administration of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani. However, opposition from Shia factions, citing concerns about releasing individuals linked to terrorism, has impeded progress on the legislation. Sunni leaders argue that amending the law is crucial for releasing Sunnis they claim are wrongfully imprisoned.

Criticism has also been directed at the Iraqi government for executing numerous individuals convicted of terrorism. According to reports, since December, at least 34 people have been executed, with human rights organizations suggesting the number could be higher. These executions have predominantly affected individuals of Sunni descent, often without adequate notification to the prisoners, their legal representatives, or their families.

In response to rumors of mass executions during the Eid al-Adha holiday, the Ministry of Justice in late June refuted these claims and announced intentions to prosecute rumor spreaders.

Former Iraqi Parliament Speaker Usama Al-Nujaifi, leader of the Sunni Mutahidoun Party, appealed to the nation’s top officials on June 12 to halt executions until a general amnesty law is enacted.

The Iraqi Parliament’s Human Rights Committee has highlighted severe issues within the nation’s prison system, including chronic overcrowding, disease outbreaks, drug trafficking, and the alleged use of torture by interrogators. With an estimated 70,000 inmates housed in fewer than 30 facilities, these conditions have become increasingly dire.