Chaldean Patriarch Calls for Reevaluation of Iraq’s Political Process to Preserve Community Rights

Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako, patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church, has called for a reevaluation of Iraq’s political process as the 21st anniversary of Saddam Hussein’s regime approaches. Sako emphasized the need to move away from a system based on sectarianism and quota-sharing, advocating instead for a new consensus formula grounded in full citizenship. This approach, he argued, would ensure a better future for all Iraqis and preserve the country’s diverse communities and their rights, which he described as “the beauty of Iraq.”

Sako expressed concern over the ongoing conflicts and human rights violations in the region, noting that the holy month of Ramadan arrives amid continued destruction and unrest. He stressed that peace is not merely an abstract concept but a vital life project that must be actively cultivated and lived out in daily actions.

The patriarch has long championed the establishment of a democratic civil state in Iraq, one that upholds equal rights and duties for all citizens. He has repeatedly highlighted the importance of building a sovereign state rooted in law, justice, equality, and citizenship, ensuring a safe and dignified life for every individual.

Sako is known for his consistent advocacy against division and hatred, promoting values of coexistence and respect for human rights. His calls for accountability and transparency reflect a broader concern about the spread of corruption and the lack of serious efforts to establish a just and lawful state.

Last year, Sako withdrew from Baghdad to Erbil in protest against the Iraqi president’s decision to revoke his appointment as patriarch of the Chaldean Church in Iraq and the world, along with his management of the church’s endowments. The Chaldean Patriarchate attributed this action to pressure from an armed faction.

Sako’s public statements underscore a commitment to justice, mercy, and humble service, themes echoed in Micah 6:8. His efforts to foster unity and protect the rights of Iraq’s diverse communities align with a vision of a just and peaceful society.

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