Iraqi Press Highlights 25 Aug 05
Iraqi newspapers dated 25 August highlight the following issues:
I. Iraqi constitution
Al-Zawra carries on the front page a 120-word report citing Sahib al-Amiri, secretary general of Al-Shahid [the martyr] Establishment, affirming that Muqtada al-Sadr has urged his followers to register their names for the elections later this year.
Al-Zawra publishes on the front page a 300-word article by Shihab al-Tamimi, chairman of the Iraqi Journalists Association, outlining the association’s role and contribution to ensure freedom of press in the constitution draft.
Al-Zawra publishes on the front page a 400-word article by the newspaper’s political editor entitled “Constitution’s Mines Threaten Iraq’s Future.” The writer believes that the constitution draft focuses on Iraqi components’ interrelations rather than on relationship between people and the state. The writer predicts that the constitution will weaken Iraq and lead to its partition.
Al-Furat publishes on the front page a 300-word report citing British reports indicating that the Iraqi constitution draft will lead to Iraq’s disintegration and instability in the region.
Al-Furat publishes on the front page a 200-word report citing retired US General Garner criticizing President Bush’s administration for the short period of time given to Iraqis to complete the constitution draft.
Al-Furat publishes on the front page an 800-word report on the reaction of various Iraqi parties to the constitution draft. The report focuses on the reaction of Sunni forces.
Al-Furat carries on page 2 a 400-word column by Majid Fadil al- Zabun urging the Independent Electoral Commission in Iraq to announce the mechanism of voting on the constitution draft. The writer proposes that people should vote on disputed issues in the constitution in the upcoming referendum.
Al-Furat carries on page 2 a 500-word interview with Dr Salih al- Mutlak, Constitutional Committee member and spokesman for the National Dialogue Council, on the latest developments in the constitutional process.
Al-Manarah carries on page 4 a 500-word report on the seminar organized by Iraqi Independent Electoral Commission in Basra Governorate recently.
Al-Manarah carries on page 4 a 600-word report citing a number of women activists in Karbala explaining their views on the constitution draft.
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August publishes on the front page a 450-word follow-up report on the latest developments in the constitutional process. The report strongly criticizes and describes the constitution draft as “illegal.”
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August publishes on the front page a 600-word editorial strongly criticizing Iraqi leaders for lying about the constitution draft.
Al-Adalah carries on page 1 a 100-word report on two meetings held by Abd-al-Aziz al-Hakim, leader of the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI), with the US and British ambassadors in Baghdad to discuss the constitutional process.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 8 an 800-word report citing Iraqi Lawyers Doyen Kamal Hamdun discussing the role of the Lawyers Syndicate in drafting the constitution and preventing human rights violations in Iraq.
Al-Zaman publishes on the front page an 850-word report citing National Assembly members saying that the parties that boycotted the elections will not change their stance on federalism. The report cites a statement by Sunni General Conference that endorsement of the constitution draft without consensus is illegal. The report cites a statement by the Iraqi Islamic Party condemning violence targeting Sunnis while the party is engaged in drafting the constitution.
Al-Zaman publishes on the front page a 200-word report citing an Al-Zaman correspondent quoting Kurdish Parliament Chairman Adnan al- Mufti saying that the parliament unanimously voted on the constitution draft.
Al-Zaman publishes on the front page a 650-word report citing President Jalal al-Talabani saying that stability in Iraq cannot be achieved without consensus among Shiites, Sunnis and Kurds, and that Sunni demands should be accepted.
Al-Da’wah publishes on the front page a 180-word report citing US Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad saying that Arab Sunnis will not obtain all demands and that they should not deprive others of enjoying their rights.
Al-Da’wah publishes on the front page a 400-word report on the developments and disputes on the constitution draft.
Al-Da’wah publishes on page 3 a 350-word interview with National Assembly member Muna Zalzalah on federalism and Islam as a legislation source in the constitution.
Al-Da’wah publishes on page 5 a 220-word article by Rasim Qasim calling on political leaders to leave aside disputes for the sake of Iraq.
Al-Mashriq publishes on the front page a 600-word report that the deadline set by the National Assembly to solve disputes in the constitution draft ends today. The report quoted Salih al-Mutlak saying that negotiations with Unified Iraqi Alliance and Kurdish Alliance are improving and no one knows what the results will be.
Al-Mashriq publishes on the front page a 250-word report on the National Assembly of Kurdistan announcing that the constitution draft is a great accomplishment for Kurds.
Al-Mashriq publishes on the front page a 30-word report citing National Assembly member Mariyam al-Rayyis confirming that her list insists that the constitution draft condemn the dissolved Ba’th Party.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 2 a 400-word report citing National Assembly member Jawad al-Maliki confirming that federalism has been agreed on by the Unified Alliance and the Kurdish Alliance, in addition to other parties.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 240-word report citing the Higher Electoral Commission confirming that it has called on the people of Al-Ramadi, Kirkuk, Salah al-Din, and Mosul to register their names in voting centers.
Al-Mada publishes on page 8, 9, and 10 the full text of the constitution draft.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page an 80-word report saying that the Association of Muslim Scholars rejects the constitution draft, and that one of the reasons is that Islam is not the basic source of legislation.
II. Political developments and comments
Al-Zawra carries on the front page a 100-word report citing Iraqi Ambassador to Egypt Safiyah al-Suhayl protesting against the appointment of Awaz Fakhri, who was involved in the assassination of her father in Beirut in 1994, as director of the Foreign Ministry’s Arab Department.
Al-Zawra carries on the front page a 400-word editorial by the newspaper’s chief editor praising Culture Minister Nuri al-Rawi and Deputy Prime Minister Abid Mutlak al-Juburi for their efforts in reinstating employees of the dissolved Information Ministry.
Al-Zawra carries on the front page a 200-word report citing a statement by the Integrity Committee accusing a number of senior officials, whom it declines to identify, of corruption.
Al-Zawra carries on page 2 a 250-word report citing Sayf al- Sharif, secretary general of the Arab Journalists Union, announcing that the union will cancel its previous decision to freeze the membership of Iraqi Journalists Association in September.
Al-Zawra carries on page 2 a 100-word report stating that the Iraqi Journalists Association is studying a new charter.
Al-Furat carries on the front page a 140-word report citing a statement by the Special Court responsible for the trial of former regime leaders affirming that former President Saddam Husayn exclusively appointed Khalil al-Dulaymi to defend him, during his arraignment two days ago, 23 August.
Al-Manarah carries on the front page and on page 7 a 2,000-word interview with National Assembly member Mansur al-Kan’an, who strongly criticized the British forces’ policy in Basra and other southern governorates.
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August carries on page 2 a 200-word report citing Shaykh Jasim Sa’id Mushari al-Zalimi, a tribal chief from Al- Samawah, criticizing Iraqi and “occupation” forces for their brutality.
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August publishes on page 8 a 1,400-word interview with Shaykh Muhammad Ayyash al-Kubayysi, spokesman for the Association of Muslim Scholars, who explains his views and activities.
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August devotes all of page 9 to a report holding “occupation” forces responsible for Al-Nahdah bombings.
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August devotes all of page 11 to reports and articles criticizing the Iraqi Government and officials, political leaders, especially Abd-al-Aziz al-Hakim, leader of the Supreme Council for Islamic Revolution in Iraq, US Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad, “occupation forces,” federalism and the constitution draft.
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August devotes the entire back page to a report criticizing Interior Minister Bayan Jabr al-Zubaydi and Iraqi security forces.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 1 a 200-word report on a demonstration in Wasit Governorate demanding the Iraqi Government to execute the criminals involved in killing and kidnapping.
Al-Zaman publishes on the front page a 350-word report citing Ambassador Ra’d al-Alusi, the Iraqi delegate at Arab League, calling on Arab countries to establish diplomatic relations with Iraq and take a severe and united position denouncing terrorism in Iraq.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 2 a 200-word report on a statement by Follow-up and Coordination Committee of Arab National Conference, Islamic National Conference, and Arab Parties Conference that demonstrations will be staged in Washington and other world capitals on 24 September, calling for withdrawal of foreign forces from Iraq.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 3 a 230-word report that Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari met with the British ambassador to Baghdad to discuss the political process in Iraq. The report cites a statement by the Foreign Affairs Ministry that the Romanian Government wrote off 2bn dollars of Iraq’s debts.
Al-Mashriq publishes on the front page a 50-word report saying that the Iraqi government has submitted evidence to the Syrian government that members of the former regime are supporting and funding terrorism in Iraq.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 70-word report quoting the minister of culture confirming that the ministry will play an active role in rebuilding Iraq.
Al-Mada publishes on page 2 a 750-word report citing the Iraqi minister of water resources calling on participants in the International Week for Waters to work towards solving international river issues.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 400-word report saying that President Jalal Talabani received a number of Iraqi women representing civil society organizations.
III. Security and military developments
Al-Furat publishes on the front page a 250-word report citing medical sources as saying that at least 25 people, including a number of police officers, were killed, and 30 others were injured in four explosions in Hay al-Jami’ah district, in western Baghdad yesterday, 24 August.
Al-Furat publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing a police source in Samarra saying that gunmen broke into the house of Fu’ad Ahmad Yasin, a police officer, in Samarra yesterday, 24 August, killing one of his relatives and blowing up the house.
Al-Furat publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing an official source at the Interior Ministry asserting that Deputy Justice Minister Hashim Ibrahim escaped an assassination attempt in Baghdad yesterday, 24 August.
Al-Furat publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing a police source affirming that a terrorist driving a booby-trapped car attacked a convoy of senior officials of the Defense Ministry, near the Green Zone in central Baghdad.
Al-Furat publishes on page 2 a 120-word report citing an official source affirming that Iraqi Navy received one out of 6 boats due from the Industry Ministry.
Al-Furat publishes on page 2 a 400-word interview with Colonel Ali, commander of Iraqi security forces in Al-Radwaniyah and Al- Latifiyah districts in southern Baghdad, explaining the preparations to protect electoral centers and voters during the upcoming referendum and elections.
Al-Furat publishes on page 2 a 200-word report stating that approximately 150 police officers staged a demonstration in Al- Najaf demanding payment of their salaries.
Al-Furat publishes on page 2 a 100-word report citing an official source at the Oil Ministry confirming the arrest of a terrorist group in Al-Taji district in northern Baghdad. No dates were given.
Al-Furat publishes on page 2 a 200-word report citing Al- Diwaniyah Police Chief General Abd-al-Abbas Shallal al-Gar’awi confirming the implementation of a security plan that significantly reduced the crime rate in the governorate.
Al-Manarah carries on page 4 a 200-word report citing Al- Muthanna Police Chief General Karim Hulaybit confirming the decline of crime rates in the governorate by 20 percent in the last few months.
Al-Manarah carries on page 4 a 900-word report on the widespread drug trafficking in Al-Muthanna Governorate.
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August publishes on the front page and on page 2 a 900-word report on the recent security developments in Al-Mada’in district. The report cites citizens coming from the district confirming the arrest of 750 citizens in the last three days.
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August publishes on the front page a 200-word report on Statement 146 by the Association of Muslim Scholars strongly condemning “occupation” forces for Al-Alawi Crime, which claimed the lives of more than 20 people.
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August publishes on the front page a 140-word report stating that Interior Ministry’s commando backed by “occupation” forces killed three members of a family in Al-Amiriyah district.
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August publishes on page 2 a 1,000-word report on the activities of Iraqi “resistance” throughout Iraq. The report focuses on military operations targeting US forces and bases.
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August publishes on page 2 a 100-word exclusive report citing eyewitnesses confirming the shooting down of a US helicopter near Al-Qa’im district.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 2 a 200-word report citing National Assembly member Muhammad Taqi al-Mawla saying that President Jalal Talabani has promised to provide shelter and financial aid to refugees from Tal’afar and talk to interior and defense ministers and the US troops commander in Iraq to restore order and security in the city.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 2 a 100-word report on a recent meeting held by Babil Governor Salim Salih al-Mislimawi with a number of tribal leaders in the governorate to discuss the role of tribes in establishing security.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 10 a 2,500-word interview with Defense Minister Sa’dun al-Dulaymi to discuss the security situation in Iraq and the role of the Iraqi Army.
Al-Zaman carries on the front page a 220-word report on a statement by Sunni General Conference condemning random arrests by multinational forces and Iraqi forces, especially in Al-Mada’in. The report cites Sunni Waqf Chairman Ahmad Abd-al-Ghafur al-Samarra’i accusing senior officials at the Interior Ministry of issuing random warrant arrests against residents of Al-Mada’in.
Al-Zaman publishes on the front page a 180-word report citing Al- Anbar deputy governor saying that US forces released 250 prisoners from Al-Anbar and they will release another 250 prisoners next Saturday.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 2 a 220-word report on a statement by Justice Ministry Media Bureau that the ministry will release 472 prisoners without bail today.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 2 a 300-word report citing source at the Electric Power Protection Network saying that Electricity Minister Muhsin Shalash ordered that Major General Faris Rashid al- Bayati, the network’s director general and the minister’s security advisor, should be in a civilian department and his grade should be colonel.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 2 a 100-word report citing well- informed sources saying that the kidnapped account director of the Central Bank of Iraq was released on paying ransom.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 3 a 300-word report citing chairman of Lawyers Association saying that dozens of lawyers were detained by US forces and Iraqi security agencies and that his association will show international and legal parties a list of detained lawyers.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 4 a 450-word report citing Mosul Police Commander Najm Abdullah saying that security situation in Tala’far is critical. He appreciated the peaceful efforts to put an end to the suffering of citizens. The report cites tribal chiefs and notables from Tala’far calling on the government to put an end to the crisis.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 4 a 300-word report citing a source at the Interior Ministry saying that two booby-trapped cars targeting police patrols on Al-Rabi’ Street in Baghdad exploded. The source added that the explosion was followed by clashes between gunmen and policemen. The report also carries a statement that US forces arrested a member of Al-Qa’idah Organization and two others and found a weapons hideout.
Al-Da’wah publishes on the front page a 120-word report citing Karbala governor saying that terrorists and Saddam’s followers spread rumors to increase the crises in Karbala.
Al-Mashriq publishes on the front page a 220-word report on the meeting between President Jalal Talabani and National Assembly member Muhamad Taqi Mawla to discuss the deteriorating situation in Tala’far.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 4 a 400-word report saying that the third brigade arrested 1444 terrorists and suspects during raids in various places in Baghdad.
IV. Health and human rights issues
Al-Zawra publishes on the front page a 120-word report citing Dr Muhammad Shu’ayb, director of Public Health and Preliminary Care Department, affirming that Iraq is free from cholera. Shu’ayb added that the Health Ministry, in cooperation with the Interior Ministry and other competent parties, has taken several precautionary measures to prevent spread of cholera from Iran.
Al-Furat publishes on page 2 a 200-word report citing National Assembly member Dr Sallamah al-Khafaji affirming that a study to improve the living situation of approximately 1m handicapped in Iraq was presented to the Human Rights Ministry.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 2 a 100-word report citing Dr Sabah al- Rubayy’i, director of the Health Ministry’s Operation Office, announcing that the ministry, in cooperation with WHO, has begun a 37m dollars project for handicapped care.
Al-Furat publishes on page 3 a 1,200-word interview with Al- Mustafa Daughters Association Chairman Nida Shubbar on the association’s goals, activities, and plans.
Al-Manarah publishes on page 2 a 600-word report on the problems faced by Basra Public Hospital.
Al-Manarah carries on page 4 a 300-word report citing Karbala Advisory Council member Ghalib al-Da’mi announcing that the Iraqi community in Iran offered to build hospitals and an orphanage in the governorate.
Al-Manarah carries on page 4 a 120-word report citing a police source in Al-Samawah confirming the discovery of two AIDS cases in the city. The source added that the patients were Iraqis carrying US and Finland passports respectively.
Al-Manarah carries on page 4 a 500-word report on the impact of massive pollution by Basra slaughterhouse on public health.
Al-Manarah carries on page 4 a 100-word report on Maysan Jurists Union’s third conference.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 4 a 100-word report citing Basra Health Director Ra’d Dawud Salman saying that the Health Ministry will build a hospital in the governorate to rehabilitate the handicapped.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 5 an 800-word interview with Health Ministry Administrative Under-Secretary Jalil al-Shammari to discuss the efforts of the ministry to eliminate corruption and improve health services.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 2 a 100-word report on a meeting held by Health Ministry Under-Secretary Jalil al-Shammari with a delegation representing 32 Iranian medical companies to discuss the role of these companies in improving Iraq’s health sector.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 4 a 250-word report citing National Assembly member Muhammad Taqi al-Mawla saying that President Jalal al-Talabani donated 100,000 dollars to martyrs’ families in Tala’far and financial aid to 484 families in the district.
Al-Mu’tamar publishes on page 2 a 120-word report citing an official source at Health Ministry’s General Inspector Department saying that the department closed 30 pharmacies in Baghdad and an operation hall in a hospital in Baghdad.
Al-Mu’tamar publishes on page 2 a 75-word report citing an official source at Labor and Social Affairs Ministry saying that the ministry has formed a committee to follow up the national report on children.
Al-Da’wah publishes on the front page a 175-word report citing Suhaylah Abd Ja’far, the minister of Immigrants and Displaced Persons, saying that many displaced persons were granted Iraqi nationality.
Al-Da’wah publishes on the front page a 120-word report citing an official source at the Health Ministry saying that a decision was taken to increase salaries of all the ministry’s employees, starting from next month.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 100-word report citing the Ministry of Health confirming that it will sign 177 contracts with pharmaceutical companies to import medicines in the next two months.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 50-word report quoting the Ministry of Health confirming that the National Blood Center suffers from severe shortage of negative blood types.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 120-word report saying that the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs has established a committee to study the conditions of unemployed people.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 200-word report citing the Baghdad Governorate Council demanding the government to allocate 20bn dinars as compensation for victims of armed operations and violence in Iraq.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 110-word report saying that the Ministry of Health has allocated 157bn dinars for over 400 health projects, as part of its current year investment plan.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 5 a 240-word report on Iraq’s participation in workshops held by World Health Organization.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 5 a 600-word report on the free campaign conducted in cooperation with Food and Agriculture Organization, FAO, to eliminate cow and sheep diseases in Baghdad.
V. Economic news and public services
Al-Zawra carries on the front page a 200-word report citing an official source at the Trade Ministry asserting that 500m dollars has been allocated by the Finance Ministry and Economic Committee for the purchase of rationing food items for the month of September. The source reaffirmed continuation of the rationing system next year.
Al-Furat carries on page 2 a 260-word report citing former Baghdad Mayor Ala al-Tamimi denying Baghdad Advisory Council’s accusations.
Al-Furat publishes on page 3 a 200-word unattributed report entitled “The Country of One Thousand Crises,” citing a number of citizens and officials expressing their views on water, electricity, and fuel crises in Baghdad.
Al-Manarah publishes on page 2 a 200-word report on the conference organized by UNESCO recently in Amman, and attended by more than 40 Iraqi journalists, to discuss press freedom and social and professional rights.
Al-Manarah publishes on page 3 a 100-word report citing an official source at the Communication Ministry asserting that the ministry, in cooperation with South Korea, is planning to improve internet services in Iraq.
Al-Adalah carries on page 3 an 80-word report citing Babil Roads Director Majid Salim commenting on the projects implemented by the directorate to improve public services.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 4 a 300-word report on a recent symposium held by the Industry and Minerals Ministry and the Center for Market Research and Consumer Protection to discuss ways to improve local industry.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 4 a 200-word report citing General Municipalities Director Rakan Ahmad al-Allaf saying that the Municipalities and Public Works Ministry has supplied the municipalities with 1390 vehicles.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 4 a 400-word report citing Construction and Housing Minister Jasim Muhammad Ja’far saying that the ministry has signed a number of contracts with Iraqi, Saudi, and Turkish companies to build 10 housing complexes in various places in Iraq at a cost of 221bn Iraqi dinars.
Al-Bayan runs on page 2 a 100-word report citing a source at the Industry and Minerals Ministry saying that the ministry has concluded a number of agreements with Germany for financial loans to rehabilitate factories and encourage investment.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 4 a 1,200-word report surveying the comments of a number of Iraqi factory owners on the negative effect of fuel and electricity shortage.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 2 a 350-word report citing economists and businessmen calling for legislations to protect national industry, during a symposium by Market Research and Consumer Protection Center, attended by the Industry and Minerals minister, yesterday.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 2 a 300-word report citing a source at the Industry and Minerals Ministry saying that the ministry conducted a symposium to discuss methods to develop Iraqi industry.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 3 a 100-word report citing an official source at the Culture Ministry saying that the ministry has decided to delay removing Al-Namrud’s treasure from Al-Namrud area in Mosul, for security reasons.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 3 a 350-word report citing an Iraqi economist saying that rehabilitation of the banking sector will develop public and private sectors. He called for “transparency” in privatization.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 3 a 200-word report citing Dhi Qar Housing Department director saying that a Turkish company will construct a housing complex of 540 apartments in Al-Nasiriyah.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 3 a 350-word report on a statement by Planning and Development Cooperation Ministry that World Bank has allocated 500m dollars to reconstruct Iraq.
Al-Mu’tamar publishes on the front page a 300-word report citing Water Resources Minister Dr Abd-al-Latif Jamal Rashid calling on the international community to take part in financing dams in Iraq, during a conference on international water in Stockholm.
Al-Mu’tamar publishes on page 2 a 100-word report citing Construction and Housing Minister Muhammad Jasim Ja’far saying that his ministry signed a contract worth 600bn Iraqi dinars to construct ten housing complexes, roads, and bridges in several governorates.
Al-Mu’tamar publishes on page 2 a 100-word report citing a source at Planning and Development Cooperation Ministry saying that 29 hospitals will be constructed in southern governorates.
Al-Mu’tamar publishes on page 2 a 100-word report citing an official source at the Municipality and Public Works Ministry saying that Salah al-Din Municipality completed rehabilitating several water projects in the governorate.
Al-Mu’tamar publishes on page 2 a 250-word report citing Dr Riyad Ibrahim, director of Job Provision and Professional Training Center, saying that the US Agency for International Development has decreased the funds to develop these centers from 88m dollars to 33m dollars.
Al-Da’wah publishes on the front page a 120-word report stating that national security and agriculture ministers received a delegation of shaykhs and notables from Babil tribes.
Al-Da’wah publishes on page 2 a 100-word report citing an official source at Karbala University saying that the University City is being constructed.
Al-Da’wah publishes on page 2 a 100-word report citing the spokesman for the Oil Ministry saying that two refineries will be constructed in Kuwaysinjaq and Jurf al-Sakhr at a cost of 400m dollars and 800m dollars respectively.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 140-word report citing the Strategic Commission for Reconstructing Iraq announcing a national campaign to improve school conditions in Iraq, with the support of international organizations.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 120-word report citing the Ministry of Telecommunications announcing new measures to develop postal services.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 150-word report citing the Ministry of Housing and Reconstruction announcing that it is building nine schools in Kirkuk costing 1bn dinars.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 100-word report saying that the Ministry of Culture has decided to establish 18 cultural centers throughout Iraq.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 230-word report citing the Agriculture Ministry warning that desertification in central and southern Iraq will hinder the implementation of strategic projects.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 5 a 50-word report citing local shipping agents saying that oil exports from Basra have stopped again due to power outage.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 5 a 300-word report on the decrease in agricultural investment in Iraq.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 5 a 500-word report on the increasing number of investors in the free zone on Iraq-Jordan borders.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 5 a 500-word report saying that Iraq has signed contracts worth 7.4m dollars to implement reconstruction projects.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 5 a 500-word report on the quick recovery of Iraq’s marshlands.
Al-Mada publishes on page 2 a 70-word report saying that Thai rice has reached Umm Qasr Port.
Al-Mada publishes on page 2 a 300-word report on the construction of an oil refinery in Karbala.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 240-word report citing Iraqi Oil Ministry announcing its plan to streamline investment and cooperation with international companies.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 5 a 400-word report saying that 11.8m dollars have been allocated to implement irrigation and water projects in Al-Radwaniyah.
VI. Press comments
Al-Zawra carries on page 2 a 500-word column by Salam al-Shamma strongly criticizing De-Ba’thification process.
Al-Zawra carries on page 4 a 1,200-word article by Shakir al- Naqash criticizing Al-Ja’fari’s government for its failure to provide public services and security, and praising former Prime Minister Allawi.
Al-Furat carries on page 5 a 1,200-word article by Muhammad Fadil urging Iraqis to learn lessons from Japan, France, and Germany’s post-occupation experiences.
Al-Furat carries on page 5 a 400-word unattributed commentary criticizing the Constitutional Committee for submitting an incomplete constitution draft to the National Assembly.
Al-Furat carries on page 5 a 300-word unattributed commentary entitled “Iraqi Constitution’s Crisis,” saying that unless differences on the constitution draft are quickly settled, the entire political process in Iraq will collapse.
Al-Furat carries on page 6 a 600-word article by Ibrahim Hamad praising the Higher Education and Scientific Research Ministry for removing the concrete slabs near the ministry and urging other ministries to do the same.
Al-Furat publishes on the back page a 600-word column by Tha’ir al-Qaysi strongly criticizing federalism and warning against regional influence on federal blocs.
Al-Manarah publishes on page 2 a 1,200-word article by Abd-al- Karim al-Amiri strongly criticizing satellite television channels for their poor coverage and premeditated programs on the constitutional process and important topics such as federalism. The writer says that most Iraqis are not familiar with these concepts and need education and enlightening in this regard.
Al-Manarah publishes on page 2 a 1,000-word article by Muwaffaq al-Rifa’i asking if Iraqis really need a National Assembly that differs on all issues. Do Iraqis require a constitution that increases differences between Iraqi factions? The writer says that what Iraqis really need is a technocratic government to fight poverty, unemployment, corruption, and diseases.
Al-Manarah publishes on page 2 a 700-word article by Mu’ayad Hannun entitled “Who Will Come First in the Iraqi Newspaper Marathon.”
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August publishes on page 2 a 900-word article by Abu al-Faruq analyzing why “invaders and their agents” submitted the constitution draft hurriedly to the National Assembly.
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August publishes on page 5 a 1,200-word article by Ibrahim al-Khalidi, an Iraqi writer and a political analyst, entitled “What Do We Want from the Constitution?
Al-Basa’ir on 24 August publishes on page 5 a 700-word article by Ahmad al-Marsumi, an Iraqi writer, praising the Iraqi “resistance.”
Al-Adalah carries on page 4 a 1,200-word article by Ahmad Mahdi al-Yasiri saying that the finalization of the constitution draft is a victory for Iraqis.
Al-Adalah publishes on page 4 a 400-word article by Imad al- Haddad calling on the Iraqi Government to establish justice by punishing Saddam Husayn and his followers for their crimes against the Iraqi people.
Al-Adalah runs on page 4 a 400-word article by Shaykh Ali Abd-al- Husayn Kammunah discussing ways to eliminate sectarianism in Iraq.
Al-Adalah publishes on page 5 a 700-word article by Zuhayr al- Baghdadi criticizing Iraqi politicians who reject federalism and believe that it will fragment Iraq.
Al-Adalah carries on page 16 a 1,000-word article by Haydar Kammunah criticizing Baghdad Municipality’s approach to solve the housing crisis.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 1 a 300-word editorial by Chief Editor Isma’il Zayir praising Iraqi security forces for capturing terrorists responsible for the recent bombings in Al-Nahdah bus station in Baghdad. Zayir calls on the Iraqi Government to improve the skills of these forces to provide security.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 2 a 500-word article by Sadiq Bakhan criticizing Arab leaders for keeping silent about the “disasters” that are taking place in Iraq, saying that Arabs are only concerned with their own interests.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 8 a 1,000-word article by Nasir Umran al-Musawi discussing the role of political ideologies and law in drafting the Iraqi constitution.
Al-Bayan runs on page 3 an 800-word article by Adnan al-Asadi commenting on the need to accelerate construction projects in stable areas, especially in central and southern Iraq, in order to eliminate unemployment and encourage other areas to establish security and stability.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 700-word unattributed article discussing the new tasks undertaken by NATO in the Middle East.
Al-Bayan carries on page 3 a 500-word article by Salim Rasul commenting on the long history of persecution and dictatorships in Iraq, saying that Iraqi political leaders need to end this process by unity and altruism.
Al-Bayan runs on page 4 a 400-word article by Zaynab al-Khafaji calling on Iraqi political leaders who object to certain details in the constitution draft to revise their stance so that they are not alienated in the future.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 8 a 400-word article by Adil al- Rubay’i criticizing people who are destroying Iraqi infrastructure and hindering the Iraqi Government’s attempts to improve public services, saying that these acts will not lead to the ousting of multinational forces.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 2 a 300-word article by Rahman Mushawi calling on Iraqis not to say “yes” to the constitution until they are well-versed with its articles.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 3 a 350-word article by Muhammad Abd- al-Jabbar al-Shabbut in which he says that, according to democracy, people should know everything taking place behind the closed doors of the government.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 4 a 450-word article by Sa’d al- Ubaydi in which he says that “anti-government” forces have begun to target the government body, policemen and army soldiers, after having failed to achieve any psychological inhibition by targeting US forces.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 6 a 500-word article by Jihad Zayir in which he says that Iraqi politicians have no experience in some constitutional issues and that Iraqis, deprived of political participation, cannot immediately decide whether some issues benefit them or not.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 8 a 300-word article by Jamal al- Muzaffar commenting on high prices of all products and calling on the government to take measures to stop this.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 8 a 500-word article by Jalil Kamal al- Din commenting on Colin Powell, the former US secretary of state.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 15 a 1,200-word article by Wathiq Ibrahim al-Dulaymi commenting on terrorism and the Iraqi “resistance” and US “occupation.”
Al-Zaman publishes on page 15 a 1,250-word article by Adnan Ni’mah Salman commenting on Bremer’s decision to dissolve the Iraqi Army and calling on the government to solve this problem.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 15 a 650-word article by Jasim al- Saghir commenting on the constitutional guarantees and the methods to develop democracy, which is a path towards construction of a political tradition.
Al-Mu’tamar publishes on page 15 a 1,300-word article by Kazim Habib strongly criticizing the Future of Iraq symposium, which was held in Beirut last month by Arab Unity Studies Center, for appreciating the “great resistance” in Iraq.
Al-Mu’tamar publishes on page 15 a 650-word article by Riyad al- Attar in which he says that many terrorists are aired in Al- Iraqiyah satellite channel, while the judiciary remains silent. The writer says that the only loser in this battle is the homeland.
Al-Mu’tamar publishes on page 15 a 900-word article by Zayd Bin Ali al-Fadil commenting on a picture of a naked Syrian artist, on Al- Arabiyah Channel website, protesting against the war on Iraq and Palestine.
Al-Da’wah publishes on page 2 a 350-word article by Jasim al- Sayyid commenting on the continuing Iraqi crises with democratic rule.
Al-Da’wah publishes on page 7 a 300-word article strongly criticizing extremism for killing and destroying under the name of religion.
Al-Da’wah publishes on page 7 a 700-word article by Abu Muslim, Abd-al-Rasul, and Haydar calling on the National Assembly to question Mish’an al-Juburi about his calls for terrorism.
Al-Mashriq publishes on the front page a 350-word article criticizing the people who insist on federalism. The writer says that this seems like Iraqis have to choose between dictatorship or fragmentation.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 700-word editorial by Chief Editor Basim al-Shaykh saying that those who oppose the constitution draft can reject it during the upcoming referendum.
Sources: As listed