Iraqi lawmakers wary of impact of Turkish referendum outcome

Iraqi lawmakers wary of impact of Turkish referendum outcome
By Rudaw 17 hours ago
The victorious ’Yes’ voters celebrate the result of the constitutional-referendum. Photo: AFP
The victorious ’Yes’ voters celebrate the result of the constitutional-referendum. Photo: AFP
BAGHDAD, Iraq— Changing the political system in Turkey from parliamentarism to presidential rule could have long-term consequences for the regional countries including the neighbouring Iraq, according to several Iraqi lawmakers who predict a shift in Turkish relations with its troubled southern neighbour.

The constitutional reforms, which is yet to be endorsed by the parliament after winning the public vote this weekend, would enable the president to issue decrees, declare emergency rule, appoint ministers and top state officials and dissolve parliament - powers that could have ramifications for Turkish foreign policy toward Iraq, lawmakers believe.

“When all the powers are concentrated in the hands of one person, the system will usually pave the way for dictatorships,” says Iraqi Shiite lawmaker Salim Shawqi who fears increased Turkish intervention in Iraqi politics.

“I think the referendum outcome will have negative impact on Iraqi-Turkish relations. Parliamentary system is the best form of governance in this region,” Shawqi added.

Turkey has several hundred military advisors and personnel in Iraq who have been engaged in training the Sunni militia in Nineveh Plains despite Baghdad’s objection.

Relations between the two countries normalised last year after tensions peaked ahead of Mosul operation with Baghdad demanding Turkish troops in Nineveh to leave the area.

“Turkey will have increased role in the region after the referendum and if Iraqi relations with Ankara remain strained, the outcome will be detrimental for Baghdad as some Iraqi parties have antagonistic approach towards Turkey,” said Iraqi Kurdish lawmaker Muthanna Amin.

Iraq’s Turkmen population have in the past viewed Turkey as their main regional supporter although Ankara has over the past years remained largely uninvolved in Turkmen issues in Iraq.

“Unfortunately Turkey did not come to the rescue of the Shiite Turkmen when their city Talaafar was overrun by the ISIS militants, but we sincerely hope the Turkish government will show genuine stance with regards to the grievances of the Turkmen people in the country,” said Turkmen lawmaker Nahla Hababi.