Alghadeer TV Alghadeer TV
Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres has expressed strong concerns over the fresh demonstrations in Iraq, urging both the security forces and protesters to avoid violence and exercise “maximum restraint.”
Thousands of people in capital Baghdad and other major cities have taken back to the streets since Friday morning, as a result of which, over 40 people have so far been killed and nearly 3,000 more were injured.
They have been protesting against the inefficient public services, government corruption, and unemployment.
Guterres noted in a statement that what people want is their human rights, including the right to be part of the decision-making process.
“[People] want a level playing field – including social, economic and financial systems that work for all,” the UN chief said. “There can be no excuse for violence – from any quarter.”
He said that the United Nations has been “systematically appealing for non-violence and for restraint” by Iraqi authorities other actors.
“I urge maximum restraint and no use of violence, both from the side of the government and the side of the protesters,” Guterres concluded.
