Athra Alliance thanks supporters, criticizes provincial election unfairness

BAGHDEDE, Iraq — Following the provincial elections in Iraq, the Athra Alliance issued a statement expressing gratitude to its supporters and highlighting concerns about the unfairness of the election law, particularly in relation to the rights of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people.

The Alliance thanked voters who chose its candidates to represent the interests and voices of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian community. Despite moderate participation by Iraqis, the coalition emphasized the valuable role played by the Independent High Electoral Commission in conducting credible elections, despite noted shortcomings in the electoral process.

The statement underscored the Alliance’s awareness of flaws in the election law, describing it as unjust to the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian and peoples allocated quota seats. Athra Alliance’s decision to participate in the provincial elections aimed to challenge political monopolies, confront abuses, and address injustices against these communities.

The election law’s provision for voting for quota seats was criticized in the statement, citing a loss of credibility in electing representatives who truly reflect the will of the constituents. The Alliance expressed concern that political influence and financial incentives played a role in undermining the will of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people, leading to some abstaining from voting due to concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.

Emphasizing that elections are just one aspect of their broader political and national struggle, the statement reaffirmed the Athra Alliance’s commitment to the ongoing defense of the rights of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people and their presence in their historical regions.