Iraqi judiciary orders release of anti-gov't protesters

By Ali Jawad

BAGHDAD (AA) – Iraq's judiciary ordered courts on Sunday to release anti-government protesters.

In a statement, the Supreme Judiciary Council said the move came in line with a call by Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi to release the protesters.

The council reiterated that the right to protest is guaranteed by the constitution provided that "it is not accompanied by an act violating the law."

In statements following his first Cabinet meeting on Saturday, al-Kadhimi pledged to investigate the killing of protesters during a wave of anti-government demonstrations that started in October.

At least 600 people have been killed since the protests began against poor living conditions and deep-seated corruption, according to rights groups.

*Ahmed Asmar contributed to this report from Ankara