Iraqi Shiite group calls for gathering in Karbala to mark martyr's death

TEHRAN (AFP) Apr 16, 2003
The main Iraqi Shiite Muslim opposition group called Wednesday for Iraqis to gather in the southern city of Karbala next week to mark the anniversary of the death of Imam Hussein, grandson of the prophet Mohammad.

Ayatollah Mohammad Baqir Hakim, leader of the Iran-based Supreme Assembly of the Islamic Revolution in Iraq, (SAIRI) said they should gather on April 23 in the city, where the Shiite martyr was killed and buried in 680 AD.

Hussein was killed fighting for the right to lead all Muslims and his death was the final act in the schism between Shiite and Sunni Muslims that exists to today.

"Ayatollah Hakim requested the faithful from all regions and cities of Iraq go to Karbala for the fortieth day of the martyrdom of Imam Hussein," SAIRI said in a statement.

Hakim also said Iraqis in Karbala "should demand a government that will bring liberty, independence, and justice for all Iraqis under an Islamic regime".

SAIRI refused to take part in Tuesday's preliminary meeting of Iraqi opposition groups in the southern city of Ur in protest at the United States having a say in negotiations over the new leadership of Iraq.

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