Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) face intense political debate over the PMF Service and Retirement Law, particularly concerning its implications for leadership and retirement age. The legislation seeks to formalize PMF status, though it may serve political agendas amid ongoing disputes among Shiite factions. Public pressure and reform discussions are crucial to ensure the law’s integrity and avert manipulation.
Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) are currently embroiled in a significant political struggle surrounding the contentious PMF Service and Retirement Law, particularly among Shiite factions. Disagreements arise over the law’s acceptance and its retirement age stipulations, leading some to advocate for a unified approach to prevent potential political manipulation.
The PMF was established in 2014 under a fatwa issued by Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani to confront the ISIS threat. Fighting alongside the Iraqi army and the Global Coalition, the PMF has become integral to Iraq’s security, with funding projected to rise from $2.16 billion in 2021 to $2.6 billion between 2023 and 2025. Its membership reaches approximately 200,000, including around 70 different factions, predominantly of Shiite orientation.
On November 26, 2016, the Iraqi parliament ratified a law formalizing the PMF, providing it with supportive status alongside the Iraqi Armed Forces and placing it under the command of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani. The law created a leadership framework and prohibited political activity within its ranks while providing PMF members with job security, retirement benefits, and social security.
Debate surrounding the PMF law has intensified among members of the Coordination Framework (CF), an alliance of Shiite political factions in Iraq. The law’s delay in parliamentary approval has prompted concerns regarding its impact on the retirement of Faleh Al-Fayyad, head of the PMF, who has exceeded the legal ministerial retirement age.
Proponents assert the legislation is crucial for legitimizing and regulating PMF activities, while critics maintain it seeks to marginalize current leadership and compromise the PMF’s standing. Boycotts from opposing MPs and ongoing dialogue within the CF about resolving legal challenges have characterized the recent parliamentary discourse.
The Iraqi Cabinet has recently approved a new draft law for the PMF, sending it to Parliament for voting. Ali Nima al-Bandawi, a member of the Security and Defense Committee, noted broad support for the proposed PMF Retirement and Service Law, but cautioned the potential retirement of 400 commanders presents challenges due to the lack of replacements.
To address these concerns, a three-year implementation delay has been proposed to allow for the preparation and training of new leadership within the PMF. Discussions to finalize the law have occurred with prominent PMF figures, with expectations of bringing it to a vote in future parliamentary sessions.
Political analyst Saif Al-Saadi raised concerns regarding Article 32/Third, which grants Al-Fayyad broad authority for personnel retirement, suggesting that it could be misused for political objectives. Additionally, Basem Khashan of the Parliamentary Integrity Committee argued that votes should reflect legislative substance rather than political interests.
The proposed amendments to the PMF law are intertwined with other political demands, including the dissolution of the Accountability and Justice Commission concerning Sunni representation and acknowledgment of Halabja as an Iraqi province. The practice of passing controversial laws concurrently raises concerns about undermining democratic processes.
Political analyst Aed al-Hilali emphasized the necessity of public pressure to challenge this political exploitation. He called for a coalition of civil society groups to foster new political behaviors and encourage citizens to influence Iraqi public policy effectively.
In summary, the PMF Service and Retirement Law prompts contention within Iraqi politics, especially among Shiite factions, who seek to navigate the challenges tied to leadership and reforms. The law’s passage remains uncertain amid public demand for accountability and transparency in political engagements. While there is consensus on the necessity for formalizing the PMF, the implications of its implementation continue to evoke debate.
The struggle over the PMF Service and Retirement Law reflects underlying tensions within Iraqi politics, particularly among Shiite factions. The potential for political exploitation raises concerns regarding the law’s implications for leadership and governance within the PMF. Public pressure and advocacy for accountability remain crucial to prevent the misuse of political processes, urging a stronger civil society voice in shaping Iraq’s political landscape.
Original Source: shafaq.com
