Baghdad, Iraq- Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) are facing a growing political debate over the controversial PMF Service and Retirement Law. This issue is especially divisive within the Shiite factions, as groups clash over the law’s provisions, particularly the retirement age and political implications. Some factions advocate for a ‘one basket’ approach, pushing for public pressure to prevent political manipulation in the process.
The PMF was formed in 2014 following a fatwa by top Shiite cleric Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, aimed at combating ISIS. Since then, the PMF has become a critical component of Iraq’s security forces, with approximately 200,000 members. These members come from over 70 factions with various religious and ethnic backgrounds, though it remains predominantly Shiite. Funding for the PMF has also increased, from $2.16 billion in 2021 to $2.6 billion for 2023-2025.
The PMF Law was passed by Iraq’s parliament in 2016, officially recognizing these factions as a supporting force to the Iraqi Armed Forces. The law outlined a leadership structure, including a general command and military staff, placing the PMF under military regulations. It also provided members with benefits like permanent employment status and social security. Despite these efforts, the law has faced delays, and certain provisions, particularly those regarding retirement, continue to stir controversy.
The law now finds itself at the center of heated debates within the Coordination Framework (CF), an alliance of Shiite parties. Key issues include the law’s long-standing delay in approval and its potential impact on the retirement of PMF head Faleh Al-Fayyad, who has surpassed the legal retirement age for holding a ministerial position. Supporters of the law argue that it will formalize and regulate the PMF, while opponents claim it could weaken the force by sidelining current leaders.
In addition, some factions fear that the law’s passage could lead to the integration of the PMF into the Iraqi army, further complicating its independence. These political disagreements have already led to boycotts in parliament, with key figures from within the CF holding meetings to resolve the legal challenges surrounding the law.
The PMF Retirement and Service Law has gained support across many political forces, including Sunni MPs in the Security and Defense Committee. However, concerns remain over the large number of leaders who could be retired under the new provisions, with some fearing a leadership vacuum. To mitigate this, the committee proposed a three-year delay to allow for leadership training and preparation for the vacancies that will arise.
Despite the broad support for the law, political analyst Saif Al-Saadi warned that certain provisions, like Article 32/Third, could be exploited for political or electoral gain. This provision grants sweeping authority to retire PMF personnel, potentially for reasons unrelated to performance. Some factions see this as an opportunity to remove rivals from the ranks for political purposes.
Further complicating the issue, Shiite factions have proposed amendments to ensure the law’s passage, tying its approval to other political demands. These include controversial laws related to the Sunni component and Kurdish issues, such as recognizing Halabja as an Iraqi province. This approach has raised concerns about the democratic integrity of the process, as laws may be passed in a single package despite significant opposition.
The final decisions on the law’s provisions rest with the Legal and Security & Defense Committees, which will review proposed changes. One suggested change involves allowing brigade commanders over the retirement age to serve as security advisors, with financial compensation for their continued work.
Political analyst Aed al-Hilali emphasized that controversial laws often serve to strengthen the political bases of MPs and blocs. This practice, which has plagued Iraq since the 2005 elections, can only be curtailed by significant public pressure. Al-Hilali urged citizens and civil society organizations to unite and push for reforms, stressing that only public awareness and active participation can reshape the political landscape.
In conclusion, the PMF Law continues to spark intense debates about its impact on Iraq’s political and security future. The growing concerns over political exploitation highlight the need for careful scrutiny and public involvement in the legislative process. The law’s fate will depend on the balance of power within Iraq’s political factions and the public’s ability to hold lawmakers accountable.
