Kut protesters demand removal of governor, police chief over deadly hypermarket fire

WASIT — Nightly protests have continued for a fourth straight day in Kut, where demonstrators are demanding the immediate dismissal of Wasit Gov. Mohammed Al-Mayahy and the provincial police chief in connection with a deadly fire that killed at least 61 people at a recently opened hypermarket.

On Saturday night, protesters gathered outside the gates of the Wasit Provincial Council and issued a 48-hour ultimatum, warning that they would escalate their actions — including launching an open-ended sit-in — if the officials were not removed.

“We address those in executive and legislative roles at both local and federal levels to hold themselves accountable,” said academic Mohammed Mez’al Khalati. “Our hearts burn for the blood of our city’s people. We say clearly: resign before regret is too late.”

The five-story commercial building, which had been open for just one week, went up in flames late Wednesday. Most victims died from smoke inhalation, with many reportedly trapped in bathrooms with no clear emergency exits.

“We demand a decisive stance from the provincial council and the dismissal of local officials,” said resident Ali Abd Mwai’. “Otherwise, protesters will set up their tents at the council gates and demand the suspension of its work.” He also called on the council to formally interrogate officials, including the governor, rather than meeting with them informally without legal consequences.

“The people of Wasit from all walks of life are united in demanding punishment for those responsible — from the governor and police chief to the lowest level involved in the disaster,” protester Abu Shuja Al-Kinani told 964media.

Public anger has intensified amid revelations of administrative negligence. Iraq’s Interior Ministry announced Saturday that 17 government employees have been suspended and three senior officers detained in connection with the fire. Investigators have cited serious lapses in safety enforcement and emergency response protocols.

Iraq’s parliament is scheduled to hold an emergency session on Monday to address both the Kut fire and a wave of recent drone attacks on infrastructure and oil facilities in the Kurdistan Region.