Al-Hakim says Iraq’s census will remain free of ‘political implications’

NAJAF — Ammar Al-Hakim, head of the Al-Hikma Movement, reassured citizens on Wednesday that Iraq’s upcoming population census will be free of political implications, emphasizing that it will not involve inquiries related to elections or other sensitive issues.

Speaking during a visit to Najaf, Al-Hakim highlighted the importance of the census as a neutral and data-driven initiative. He also underscored the independence of Iraq’s judiciary, stating, “The judiciary examines all details with impartiality and acquits defendants if fingerprint evidence is found to be inaccurate.”

Iraq is preparing for its first national census in over two decades, scheduled for Nov. 20, 2024. The last census, conducted in 1997, recorded the country’s population at 22.33 million. According to the Ministry of Planning, Iraq’s population was estimated at 42,248,883 in 2022, reflecting an annual growth rate of 2.5%. By 2023, the population was projected to have reached 43,324,000.

Excerpts from Al-Hakim’s press conference:

We are honored to visit Najaf, the city of knowledge, history, and struggle.

Najaf holds great symbolic value as it is home to the shrine of Imam Ali and numerous scholars.

This visit is part of our ongoing tour of Iraqi provinces, which was paused for some time due to circumstances, but we have resumed it anew.

The province is witnessing a remarkable development surge and notable cooperation among officials and workers, presenting a clear image of collaboration between them.

We are approaching a national event, the population census, and there is substantial engagement from the people of Najaf.

The census has no political implications and does not expose citizens to any other issues, such as election matters.

Visiting the provinces and closely assessing their conditions by meeting with officials and understanding their realities is an essential step to resolving all issues and obstacles within the governorates.

I hope we continue to see stability and prosperity, along with greater drive, enthusiasm, and genuine effort from local officials in Najaf.

This city deserves attention due to its agricultural, religious, and industrial importance, and it should be utilized in the best possible way.

As for the political situation in the central government in Baghdad, political stability is high, and this requires integration and coordination among political forces.

At times, disruptions occur, but the judiciary operates independently and reviews all details thoroughly.

The judiciary acquits defendants when fingerprint evidence proves inaccurate.

Regarding the Coordinating Framework and the State Coalition, a governmental stance has formed, whereby Iraq provides government support for the Palestinian cause through mediation, political support, and media coverage.

This contributes to highlighting the injustices faced by the Lebanese and Palestinian people.

With regard to humanitarian aid, Iraq, as a people and government, provides medicine and food to both peoples and hosts Lebanese and Palestinians in Iraq.

Policy and humanitarian support should keep Iraq from being drawn into any full-scale war.