Syriac candidate Ma’rib Imad Hanno discusses Athra Alliance’s vision and electoral program for Iraqi council elections

BAGHDEDE, Iraq — In anticipation of the upcoming Iraqi council elections, Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian candidate from the Bethnahrin Patriotic Union (Huyodo Bethnahrin Athroyo, HBA) Ma’rib Imad Hanno shed light on the Athra Alliance’s electoral program. As a prominent leader in the HBA, Hanno emphasizes the importance of national sovereignty and advocates for the free will of the people to choose their representatives in a democratic process.

The Athra Alliance, officially established on 3 August 2022, is a joint political bloc formed by five Chaldea–Syriac–Assyrian political parties — Bethnahrin Patriotic Union (Huyodo Bethnahrin Athroyo, HBA), the Assyrian Patriotic Party, Abnaa al-Nahrain, the Assyrian Democratic Movement (Zowaa), and the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian Popular Council.

With a background in computer technology engineering and extensive certifications in business, projects, and civil society organizations, Hanno articulated his commitment to addressing key issues facing the community. He firmly believes that the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people should not accept political marginalization and underscores the significance of a fair and transparent electoral process.

In response to concerns about vote manipulation, Hanno asserted that votes should be safeguarded against bribery, threats, electronic fraud, and other illegal methods. Additionally, he advocated for a dedicated register and electoral centers for the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people.

Focusing on Nineveh Governorate and the towns and villages of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian community, Hanno’s program aims to create new administrative units in Nineveh Plains, ultimately transforming it into a fully developed governorate and, eventually, a region in accordance with Constitutional Article 119 and other relevant provisions.

Highlighting the right to self-rule as an essential component of the community’s empowerment, Hanno believes that establishing self-rule will effectively address issues of national, political, and religious marginalization.