The intricacy of America’s role in post-war Iraq has yet to be understood, but a few indications can be discerned by editorials like this one. In the process of toppling Saddam, a startling independent media has emerged. Now it appears that the Maliki government is pushing back. Is it America’s responsibility to ensure Iraqi freedom of the press?
According to this editorial from Iraq’s Kitabat newspaper, popular host of the TV news series Ideas Without Fences and a leading critic of the regime, Imad Al Abadi, was nearly murdered by assailants on Wednesday of last week. This editorial charges that the Maliki government cannot be trusted to investigate – and that the occupiers must.
The Kitabat editorial says in part:
“The Kitabat newspaper strongly condemns the despicable assassination attempt targeting courageous independent news anchor Imad Al Abadi, who hosts the program Ideas Without Fences on national satellite channel Al Diyar.
[Editor’s Note: According to the wire services, on November 23, Abadi was shot in the head and neck by gunmen using a silencer-equipped pistol at about 8pm as he drove not far from Baghdad’s Green Zone. He made it to an Iraqi checkpoint and doctors say his chances of recovery are good.]
Kitabat holds Maliki, along with his ill-prepared and unconstitutional Baghdad Operational Command security force singularly responsible for this despicable and criminal attack. Kitabat also holds the U.S. occupying forces morally and legally responsible and considers them accountable for the consequences of their criminal aggression. Therefore, Kitabat calls upon the occupying U.S. forces to conduct a prompt, independent investigation to reveal those elements who stand behind this assassination attempt – and not leave responsibility for the investigation in the hands of Maliki, whose is known for setting up investigation committees that uncover absolutely no evidence useful for capturing criminals or exposing their crimes.”
EDITORIAL
Translated By Nicolas Dagher
November 28, 2009
Iraq – Kitabat – Home Page (Arabic)
The Kitabat newspaper strongly condemns the despicable assassination attempt targeting courageous independent news anchor Imad Al Abadi, who hosts the program Ideas Without Fences on national satellite channel Al Diyar.
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