The Iraqi Minister of Justice, Khaled Shawani, recently announced a landmark decision that will change the dynamics of agricultural land ownership in the country. The Cabinet has approved a draft law that revokes decisions taken by the now-dissolved Revolutionary Command Council pertaining to agricultural lands of Kurdish and Turkmen farmers in Kirkuk.
According to Iraqi news agency “Shafaq News”, Shawani, in a press conference held in Baghdad, revealed, “We bring good news to the people of Kirkuk. The cabinet has unanimously approved a draft resolution to annul decisions by the dissolved Revolutionary Command Council relating to the confiscated agricultural lands in Kirkuk and its surrounding areas, which were granted to Arab newcomers.”
Further, he added that the draft law comprises the nullification of nine decisions regarding agricultural lands issued in 1976 during the tenure of the previous regime led by the late President Saddam Hussein.
Shawani explained, “The draft law will be presented to the Parliament for approval today,” emphasizing that this is an important decision for Kurds and Turkmens in Kirkuk and is not directed against any other group or component.
Calling on the Parliament, the Justice Minister urged the approval of this draft law as soon as possible, thereby expediting its implementation.
The Iraqi government’s move to undo the decisions of the former regime marks a significant shift towards recognizing the rights of Kurdish and Turkmen farmers, likely to foster greater social cohesion and stability in the region. It’s a critical development that underlines the ongoing transformation in Iraq, balancing the scales of justice, and offering a fresh start for many of its citizens.
