Calls for 'integrated work'
Iraqi Prime Minister meets new Diyala council head amid local tensions
BAGHDAD — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani convened with Omar Ma’an Al-Karawi, the recently appointed head of the Diyala provincial council, on Saturday in Baghdad, marking Al-Karawi’s first official engagement with the PM since taking office.
During their meeting, Prime Minister Al-Sudani stressed the importance of enhancing cohesion and teamwork within the council to bolster its legislative and oversight capabilities, aligning them with the federal government’s objectives. This discussion occurred shortly after Omar Al-Karawi, representing the Sunni Sovereignty Alliance, was elected as the chair of Diyala’s provincial council on August 1.
A statement from the Prime Minister’s media office highlighted Al-Sudani’s focus: “The Prime Minister emphasized the need for harmony in performance within Diyala Governorate, strengthening efforts, and working as one team to achieve developmental progress that meets the aspirations of the people of the province.”
Al-Sudani also underlined the critical need for swift implementation of key infrastructure projects that are crucial for enhancing the economic and service sectors of Diyala.
A prolonged deadlock culminated in protests sparked by the appointment of Adnan Al-Shammari from the Shia State of Law Coalition as the new governor, a decision that bypassed a candidate from the influential Tamim tribe. Following the appointment, supporters of former Governor Muthanna Al-Tamimi, predominantly from the Tamim tribe, demonstrated their discontent by shutting down several government offices in the Muqdadiya district on Tuesday evening. The local police intervened, removing banners and vowing legal actions against those instigating unrest, underscoring the ongoing challenges in Diyala’s political landscape.
Diyala elects new governor amid protests
