ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Influential Iraqi Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr on Monday voiced support for Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s anti-corruption crackdown, describing it as a “heroic reformist campaign,” and called on his supporters to take to the streets on Friday in backing the initiative.
“That campaign, which has restored hope in our hearts and the hearts of the Iraqi people after the corrupt dominated its resources,” Sadr posted on X, praising “the role of the Iraqi judiciary and the heroic security forces, especially the anti-terrorism and corruption forces.”
The endorsement follows the first-of-its-kind anti-corruption campaign led by Zaidi in coordination with Iraq’s Commission of Integrity, which has resulted in the detention of 47 suspects - including lawmakers, former officials, and senior government employees - since it began early on Sunday.
Sadr further called for Friday prayer imams to organize peaceful demonstrations next Friday to support the crackdown. He requested that participants display only Iraqi flags and banners honoring Imam Hussein, Prophet Mohammed’s grandson, during the events, which coincides with the month of Muharram.
Speaking during a cabinet session on Sunday, Zaidi said the operation marks only the beginning of a wider effort, noting that "Iraq will begin a new chapter."
“This offensive is merely a first strike; the issue of corruption is not over. We are continuing to fight it," Zaidi told the ministers, adding: "for anyone in possession of public funds, we want that money returned to its rightful owners; the people's money must return to the people.”
“I cannot remain silent about any wrongdoing. I will not compromise on the interests of the Iraqi people, and this government will be a distinguished one, God willing," he said.
“Regarding anyone whose mind is set on working for the state while stealing the money of orphans and the poor: they are mistaken. I tell them, do not stay; I will pursue them day and night.”
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