Iraqi Cleric Sadr’s Supporters Clash With Anti-Govt Protesters

Influential Shi’ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr’s political factions have been a force for years, but after previous promises to be an opposition bloc to check against corruption, the Sairoun bloc now intends to contest the June election, and envisions winning its own premiership.

Sadr’s shift isn’t a shock, as his previous blocs had a shot at forming governments, though contesting means dividing himself from anti-government protesters who historically supported him. Still, it isn’t impossible Sairoun could win the vote.

But the meantime could be messy. Already, Sadr’s militia supporters have clashed with the protesters in Nasiriyah. More clashes could mean more opposition to the bloc, and more pressure on the existing interim government to do something.

Many protesters are claiming the violence is a cynical attempt by Sadr to win the election.