Patriotic Shiite Movement (PSM) leader Muqtada al-Sadr reaffirmed his complete withdrawal from Iraq’s political process. He delivered the announcement during a ceremony in Najaf honoring his father, Grand Ayatollah Mohammad Mohammad Sadeq al-Sadr, and his two brothers, who were assassinated in 1999.
Al-Sadr used the event to issue a strong rebuke of Iraq’s political elite. He declared, “Our silence is speech, and the hearts of the corrupt are now in our hands.” His remarks directly criticized the current leadership and condemned what he sees as the country’s ongoing corruption.
The Patriotic Shiite Movement leader also encouraged his followers to uphold his father’s legacy. He urged them to reject false leaders and political opportunists. “As long as corruption exists, I will not participate in any crippled election,” he said. He emphasized that sectarian and partisan systems continue to ignore the people’s suffering.
Furthermore, al-Sadr advised his supporters not to vote or run for office. He described participation in such elections as an act that contributes to wrongdoing. “We remain loyal to Iraq and will sacrifice for it without hesitation,” he told the crowd. This statement underscored his continuing commitment to the nation despite his political exit.
His speech followed recent rumors suggesting a possible return to politics. Those rumors grew after calls for his supporters to update their voter registration records. However, al-Sadr firmly shut down speculation by reiterating his stance.
Despite his formal withdrawal, the Patriotic Shiite Movement remains highly influential in Iraqi politics. Al-Sadr’s past electoral strength—his bloc won 73 seats in the 2021 elections—shows the weight his voice still carries. Although his parliamentary bloc resigned in June 2022, his grassroots support and paramilitary influence remain significant.
In closing, the Patriotic Shiite Movement continues to shape Iraq’s political climate, even outside formal participation. Al-Sadr’s words reaffirm his position while reinforcing his ideological presence. His followers appear ready to support that vision—both politically and spiritually
