Head of Bethnahrin Patriotic Union reflects on provincial elections, urges political participation beyond ballot box

BAGHDEDE, Iraq — Yusuf Yaqoub Matti, the head of the Bethnahrin Patriotic Union (Huyodo Bethnahrin Athroyo, HBA), provided insights into the Iraqi provincial elections held over the weekend, addressing their results and the participation of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people, while discussing key disputes impacting the electoral process.

Speaking to Suroyo TV, Matti shared that preliminary results of the vote counting have been received by the party and the Athra Alliance, anticipating the release of final results in the coming hours.

Matti commented on the election process, emphasizing the positive overall turnout according to the Independent High Electoral Commission. However, he noted that the participation of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people, particularly in Nineveh, was low — a situation he attributed to the influence of rumors discouraging their engagement in the democratic process. Matti expressed disappointment, revealing that only 10% of Chaldeans–Syriacs–Assyrians participated in the election, deeming it a disastrous outcome.

Attributing this outcome to a lack of confidence in successive Iraqi governments, Matti stressed that participation in elections remains the sole avenue for change. He thanked those who supported the Athra Alliance and the HBA, expressing gratitude for their belief in the party’s vision to secure the legitimate rights of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people in Beth Nahrain (Mesopotamia).

While congratulating the election winners, Matti asserted that the party will not permit anyone to misrepresent the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people or manipulate their rights. He acknowledged errors in election coordination, emphasizing the importance of minority votes and criticizing the allowance for minorities to contribute to the majority at the expense of minority interests.

Optimistic about the future of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people and commitment to their voice, Matti highlighted efforts by certain figures to deter participation by spreading misinformation about the formality of elections and their perceived ineffectiveness in changing predetermined realities.

Concluding his statement, Matti assured that even if none of the Athra Alliance candidates secures victory, the Alliance will maintain a presence in government departments, contributing to decision-making and oversight.