IRAQ: Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian parties demand electoral reforms after dismissal of officials in Nineveh

NINEVEH PLAINS, Iraq — In the wake of the recent dismissal of administrative unit heads in Nineveh Provine, Iraq, four Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian political parties issued a joint statement demanding electoral reforms to ensure equitable representation for their community.

Criticism of Election Laws and Government Actions

The statement, released by the Beth Nahrain Patriotic Union (Huyodo Bethnahrin Athroyo, HBA), the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian Popular Council (Motwa), the Beth Nahrain Democratic Party (BNDP), and the Assyrian Democratic Movement (Zawʻá Demoqraṭáyá ʼÁṯuráyá, Zowaa), condemned the Nineveh Provincial Council’s decision to dismiss 20 local administrative officials. Although the affected officials filed legal appeals, Iraq’s Administrative High Court upheld their removal.

While the parties expressed respect for judicial independence, they criticized the formation of the Nineveh Provincial Council, calling Iraq’s current election law “flawed.” They argued that it fails to align with international human rights standards and violates Article 125 of the Iraqi Constitution, which guarantees the political rights of minority communities.

بيان للأحزاب الاربعة للشعب الكلداني السرياني الأشوري بخصوص إعفاء رؤساء الوحدات الإدارية في محافظة نينوى. pic.twitter.com/tZI5Iz7NoM

— اتحاد بيث نهرين الوطني-Bethnahrin Patriotic Union (@bethnahrinunion) February 6, 2025

Concerns Over Minority Representation

The statement highlighted a key grievance: the current practice of allowing the general electorate to vote for minority quota seats. According to the parties, this approach has resulted in the election of individuals who do not authentically represent the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian communities but instead serve external political interests.

To address this, the parties advocated for an amendment to Iraq’s election law that would limit voting for minority quota representatives to members of the respective minority groups. They argued that such a change is critical to ensuring fair representation and protecting the rights of their communities.

A Challenge to Democracy and Stability

The joint statement concluded by warning that the dismissal of the officials, combined with Iraq’s flawed electoral framework, poses a serious threat to democratic principles. The parties cautioned that these actions risk destabilizing the region by undermining the integrity of election laws and reinforcing majority rule at the expense of minority communities.