Iraqi Shiite opposition deputy leader arrives in Al-Kut

TEHRAN (AFP) Apr 16, 2003
Abdul Aziz al-Hakim, deputy head of the Supreme Assembly of the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SAIRI), the main Iraqi opposition body, was given a hero's welcome when he arrived in the southern city of Al-Kut early Wednesday, his son told AFP.

It is the first time a leading member of SAIRI has visited a southern Iraqi city where the majority are Shiite Muslims.

"Abdul Aziz al-Hakim was welcomed by thousands of citizens in Al-Kut," 150 kilometers from southeastern Baghdad, his son Mohsen Hakim said.

SAIRI, the main Shiite opposition faction, boycotted the US-brokered meeting in Ur on Tuesday, in protest at the Americans having a say in negotiations over the new leadership.

Abdul Aziz al-Hakim told a press conference: "We refuse to put ourselves under the thumb of the Americans or any other country, because that is not in the Iraqis' interests."

Iraq is an overwhelmingly Muslim country, with members of the Shiite sect making up around 65 percent of the population of about 24 million, according to unofficial estimates.

SPACE.WIRE