Iraq court sentences two to death for killing protester

More than 600 people were killed during protests which erupted in 2019 and led to demands for an overhaul of Iraq's political system

An Iraqi protester at Tayaran square in Baghdad, on October 2, 2019. AFP

An Iraqi court sentenced two people to death over the killing of a teenager who took part in anti-government protests last year, the Supreme Judicial Council said on Tuesday.

The two people, who were not identified, had “confessed to the murder” of Moujtaba Ahmed, who was shot in the head during demonstrations in the southern province of Basra, the council said in a statement.

They were sentenced to death by hanging at a court in Basra. The convicts have 30 days to appeal the verdict. A decree authorising their execution must also be signed by President Barham Salih.

Large-scale protests erupted across much of Iraq in October 2019 and continued for months, venting popular anger over poor governance, crumbling public services and widespread corruption.

More than 600 people were killed during the demonstrations, which grew to demand an overhaul of the entire political system.

On Monday, the same court sentenced another man to death over the killing of two journalists covering the demonstrations in Basra in January 2020.

A number of activists and public figures also died in targeted assassinations, including former government adviser Hisham Al Hashimi, who was shot near his home in July 2020.

Prime Minister Mustafa Al Kadhimi has repeatedly vowed to bring the killers to justice.

Government advisers previously told AFP that those targeting the activists were from paramilitary organisations, without naming the groups.

Iraq's 2019 protests — in pictures

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  Protesters stage a sit-in on barriers at the Ahrar Bridge during ongoing anti-government protests in Baghdad, Iraq. AP Photo

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  Security forces close Rasheed Street during ongoing anti-government protests in Baghdad. AP Photo

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  A demonstrator wearing a protective helmet flashes the victory sign in Tahrir Square. AFP

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  A demonstrator uses a slingshot to hurl stones at security forces during ongoing anti-governments protests in Najaf. AFP

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  Iraqi security forces help an injured soldier during clashes on Rasheed Street. EPA

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  A protester rests during a sit-in at Tahrir Square. AP Photo

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  A "wishing wall" set up by demonstrators is seen in Tahrir Square. AFP

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  Actors perform a play representing the ongoing anti-government demonstrations in Tahrir Square. AFP

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  A young protester is blanket-tossed into the air by fellow demonstrators in Tahrir Square. AFP

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  A mural representing an Iraqi pupil saying "this is a public square, and that is a schoolyard...we can play wherever you want", is seen under a canopy of sticky notes in Tahrir Square. AFP