Amendments to PMF Law Aiming to Strengthen Security and Reduce Political Influence

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani will meet with Shiite Coordination Framework leaders to discuss amendments to the PMF Service and Retirement Law. The focus will be on restructuring the PMF as a professional security force to avoid political interference. Disputes surrounding the law have resulted in political divisions and parliamentary paralysis, prompting proposals to integrate it within broader legislative measures.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani is set to convene with leaders from the Shiite Coordination Framework to discuss potential amendments to the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) Service and Retirement Law. This meeting, confirmed by a member of the Framework, will address critical changes aimed at preserving the rights of PMF members, retaining senior commanders, and clarifying criteria for ranks and leadership positions.

The proposed revisions intend to transform the PMF into a security entity operating solely under the Prime Minister’s command, insulating it from political and personal influences during military engagements. An official emphasized that the objective is to maintain the PMF as a professional security force while upholding the rights of its personnel.

A senior Coordination Framework member underscored the importance of these amendments for the PMF’s future and its stabilizing function within Iraq. The focus is on ensuring the PMF functions under consistent leadership, free from external political pressures.

Political contention surrounding the PMF law has heightened divisions within the Iraqi parliament, leading to legislative paralysis due to lawmakers boycotting sessions. To alleviate this stalemate, Prime Minister Al-Sudani has decided to withdraw the PMF law from parliamentary consideration.

The Coordination Framework is now contemplating the integration of the PMF law within a broader legislative package. Kurdish parties have conditioned their support on the passage of laws related to Halabja and oil and gas, while Sunni factions have made their backing contingent on the progression of de-Baathification legislation.

The disputes concerning the PMF law stem from multiple contentious issues. A significant concern is the perceived political influence stemming from Iran, with critics cautioning about the implications for Iraq’s sovereignty. Furthermore, the PMF’s political engagement raises concerns regarding the impartiality of state institutions.

There is ongoing debate about whether to incorporate the PMF into the Iraqi armed forces or allow it to remain an independent organization. Advocates for integration argue for the merger, while others advocate for the PMF’s continued autonomy. Opinions also diverge on the necessity for government oversight, with some calling for tighter controls and others supporting greater independence for the PMF.

Moreover, there are divergent views on financial support for the PMF; some demand increased budget allocations, while others propose exploring alternative funding sources. Additionally, there is a debate regarding salary levels, with some suggesting PMF pay should match that of the Iraqi military, while others argue it should remain lower.

In conclusion, the discussions led by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani regarding the amendments to the PMF Service and Retirement Law are pivotal for the future of the Popular Mobilization Forces. The focus on restructuring to limit political influence and enhance the PMF’s operational independence is vital for maintaining stability in Iraq. However, disputes over political influence, organizational structure, oversight, financial support, and remuneration reflect underlying tensions that will require careful negotiation and consensus to resolve.

Original Source: shafaq.com