Will Iraq pass amnesty law that could pardon terrorists?
Iraqi political blocs have agreed to pass the general amnesty draft law, although there are concerns that terrorists might be released in accordance with it.
BAGHDAD — Although the political blocs in the Iraqi Parliament agreed to pass the general amnesty draft law, voting on it has been delayed since the beginning of the current parliament’s term in 2014.
This delay reflects the concerns of competing political parties in the Iraqi Parliament, as some believe the draft law would lead to the release of terrorists or criminals, while others want their jailed leaders and comrades to be freed.
Salim Shawk, a member of the parliamentarian legal committee, told Al-Monitor that the draft law was sent to Parliament Speaker Salim al-Jabouri on March 10, and awaits being put to a vote. “The main point of dispute is the inclusion of prisoners convicted under Article 4 of the Anti-Terrorism Law,” Shawki said.
Article 4 of the 2005 Anti-Terrorism Law No. 13 states:
