Athra Alliance urges active participation in Iraqi provincial elections to safeguard Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian community

BAGHDEDE, Iraq — As the Iraqi provincial council elections draw near, the Athra Alliance issued a message to the residents of Nineveh Plains emphasizing the critical need for active participation in the electoral process to thwart authoritarian influences and secure the community’s fate.

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.

In a comprehensive statement addressing the historical context of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people, the Alliance highlighted the importance of engaging in national and political struggles. The statement underscored the need for political action related to the cause of Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people, citing their deteriorating status over the centuries.

Despite enduring numerous challenges and upheavals throughout their history, some groups among the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people have remained resilient, striving for a renewed position among the community of nations. The Alliance, recognizing the invaluable contribution of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people to the development and culture of the lands they inhabit, called on them to support their candidate Ma’rib Imad Hanno, who is nominated with the number 132, for the leadership role in Nineveh and Nineveh Plains.

The statement affirmed that differences in opinions are acceptable as long as they serve the people’s interests and independence. It highlighted the parallel nature of the ecclesiastical and political lines, emphasizing their shared goal of strengthening the earthly Church.

Moreover, the Athra Alliance cautioned against heeding voices that discourage political participation and election involvement, accusing them of attempting to distance the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people from the ballot boxes and manipulate their destiny. The Alliance stressed that the elections will lack legitimacy if the community refrains from active participation.

In conclusion, the Athra Alliance expressed optimism that the five parties, united behind Ma’rib Imad Hanno, can usher in a new era of progress for the people of Nineveh and the Nineveh Plains. The message resonates with a call for unity and collective action to shape a positive trajectory for the community’s future.