State of Law urges supporters to stop attacking political, religious figures

BAGHDAD — The State of Law Coalition, led by prime minister candidate Nouri al-Maliki, on Sunday renewed its call on media figures and supporters to adhere to “national and professional responsibility” and refrain from attacking political leaders or religious symbols.

“We renew our call to all brothers among bloggers, media professionals and opinion holders, whether officially affiliated with State of Law or supportive and appreciated, to commit to the spirit of national and professional responsibility in presentation and expression, and to avoid any transgression or insult that targets any of the national political leaders or religious symbols, because of its negative impact on the unity and stability of society,” the coalition said.

“This is something we do not accept, because our duty is to protect the unity of society, not to squander it.”

The coalition said “freedom of expression represents a fundamental value” but noted it is “always linked to ethical and national responsibility, in a way that takes into account the public interest, preserves civil peace, and promotes the language of constructive dialogue away from incitement, defamation or the spreading of division.”

The statement stressed “the importance of working to unify positions and bring viewpoints closer, and to give precedence to the discourse of reason and wisdom.”

The call comes amid tense debates on social media between users who support al-Maliki’s return as prime minister and those who oppose it.

The Shiite Coordination Framework nominated al-Maliki, who served from 2006 to 2014, prompting debate among Iraqi political forces. He stepped down in 2014 under pressure following security failures, including the fall of Mosul to the Islamic State group.

The nomination also drew reactions abroad. President Donald Trump said in a social media post that the United States would not continue its support for Iraq if al-Maliki returned to office.