Proposed Amendments to the PMF Law Aim to Ensure Independence and Stability
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani is set to meet with the Shiite Coordination Framework to amend the PMF Service and Retirement Law, focusing on the protection of PMF members’ rights and restructuring the organization. These amendments aim to limit political influence over the PMF and address contentious issues that have caused legislative gridlock in Iraq’s parliament.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani plans a meeting with leaders of the Shiite Coordination Framework to discuss amendments to the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) Service and Retirement Law. This meeting aims to revise critical provisions to retain senior PMF commanders, safeguard members’ rights, and establish clear criteria for ranks and leadership roles. An overarching goal of the proposed changes is to restructure the PMF as a security force under the sole authority of the prime minister, thereby protecting it from political and personal interference.
The aim of these amendments is to ensure that the PMF operates as a professional security force independent of political influence, while simultaneously ensuring the protection of its members’ rights. A senior member of the Coordination Framework emphasized that “the amendments are vital not only for the future of the PMF but for maintaining its role as a stabilizing force within Iraq.” They seek to establish a unified leadership for the PMF that is free from external pressures.
Political disputes surrounding the PMF law have heightened divisions, leading to paralysis within Iraq’s parliament. Many lawmakers have boycotted sessions, thwarting quorum and delaying important legislative decisions. In response to these tensions, Prime Minister Al-Sudani has decided to withdraw the PMF law from parliament. The Coordination Framework is now considering the inclusion of the PMF law as part of a broader legislative package to ease the political deadlock.
Challenges regarding the PMF are multifaceted. A significant concern is the influence of Iran over the PMF, with critics arguing that this raises questions about Iraq’s sovereignty. Other contentious points include the PMF’s political role, whether it should be integrated into the Iraqi armed forces or retain its independence, and debates about the necessary level of government oversight. Financial considerations also arise, including calls for increased government funding and disagreements over salary equivalency with the Iraqi army.
In summary, amendments to the PMF Law aim to enhance its operational integrity by ensuring independence from political interference while protecting members’ rights. The escalation of political disputes regarding the law necessitates a strategic approach to avoid legislative deadlock. A unified leadership and clear guidelines are essential for the PMF to evolve into a stabilizing force within Iraq. The discussions highlight both the complexity of the issues regarding the PMF and the urgent need for legislative resolution.
Original Source: shafaq.com
