BAGHDAD — Iraqi security forces wounded dozens of protesters on Sunday as renewed anti-government demonstrations gripped the capital and Iraq’s south, activists and officials said. Protesters are demanding an end to Iraq’s sectarian political system, alongside early elections and the stepping aside of its ruling elite. Clashes between protesters and security forces in central Baghdad wounded at least 27 people on Sunday. The Iraqi officials spoke on condition of anonymity in line with regulations. Lawmakers were expected to discuss candidates to replace outgoing Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi, who resigned in December under pressure from protesters.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer January 19, 2020 19:41 UTC