Iraqi court sentences man to three years for ‘promoting’ banned Baath Party ideology

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Central Criminal Court sentenced a man to three years in prison on Monday for promoting the ideology of the banned Baath Party through materials found in his residence.

According to a judiciary statement, the individual was arrested in southern Baghdad, where authorities seized weapons, documents, mobile phones, and a computer, in addition to publications associated with the Baath Party. The court based its ruling on Article 8, Section 1, of Law No. 32 of 2016, which criminalizes the Baath Party and activities promoting racism, terrorism, or extremist ideologies. The sentence was further supported by Article 132, Paragraph 3, of the Penal Code, which allows for enhanced penalties in such cases.

This case follows a similar incident on Oct. 15, 2024, when the Iraqi National Security Service in Nineveh arrested seven individuals for allegedly chanting pro-Baath slogans during public celebrations after Iraq’s national football team defeated Palestine. According to the National Security Service, such acts directly violate Law No. 32 of 2016, which bans any form of support or glorification of the Baath Party.

The Baath Party, which ruled Iraq from 1968 to 2003, was responsible for widespread human rights violations and the brutal suppression of dissent, particularly under Saddam Hussein. Following the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq, the party was outlawed, and strict legislation was enacted to prevent its resurgence.

In early November, Nouri Al-Maliki, leader of the State of Law Coalition, addressed what he claimed was the threat posed by Baathist remnants and other extremist groups amid escalating regional tensions. “The government and political leaders must prioritize strengthening Iraq’s security and political stability to counter threats from terrorism and criminal groups,” Al-Maliki said during a televised address.