Iraq’s Cabinet has approved a draft law for the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and referred it to Parliament amid significant debate. Supporters claim it formalizes the PMF, while opponents fear it could undermine existing leadership and the force itself. Key issues include the retirement age for PMF members, with potential implications for integrating the PMF into the Iraqi army.
Iraq’s Cabinet has approved a new draft law for the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and sent it to Parliament for voting, as announced by the Prime Minister’s media office. This proposed legislation has ignited significant debate among lawmakers regarding its implications for the PMF’s structure and leadership. Proponents argue for its necessity in formalizing PMF operations, while critics warn it may marginalize current leaders, including Falih Al-Fayyad, thus exacerbating internal divisions within the Coordination Framework, a coalition of Shiite political factions.
A major area of contention within the proposed law is the retirement age for PMF members, which some lawmakers believe might facilitate the PMF’s integration into the Iraqi Army. Amidst political disputes, the law had previously been removed from Parliament’s agenda. However, Rafiq al-Salihi, an MP from the Sadiqoun bloc, mentioned that an agreement among political parties aims to finalize the PMF Service and Retirement Law in upcoming parliamentary sessions. A source indicated the Coordination Framework is now ready to advance the law while seeking amendments to certain contentious provisions prior to its final approval.
The Cabinet’s approval of the PMF law marks a significant development in Iraq’s political landscape, driving contentious debates over the future structure of the PMF and its integration with government forces. Disagreements persist over political motivations and key provisions like retirement age, which could influence the legislative process moving forward. Negotiations within the Coordination Framework will be crucial in determining the law’s path to implementation.
Original Source: shafaq.com
