Camp Liberty Must Be Recognized as a Refugee Camp
Dr. Saleh Mutlak, Deputy Prime Minister of Iraq from the Iraqiya slate said Camp Liberty must be recognized as a refugee camp, adding he opposes the plundering of Camp Ashraf’s assets.
“I oppose pressures being imposed on People’s Mojahedin in Iraq and also oppose the plundering of their property in Camp Ashraf because the decision to confiscate their assets has a political motivation and is legally prohibited,” Dr. Mutlak said.
“We and the United Nations must courageously declare our position and recognize Liberty as a political refugee camp, regardless of all its foreign effects. There is no excuse for some political parties to insist on maintaining the PMOI in the current condition in a small camp under siege,” the Iraqi deputy premier continued.
PMOI From a Humane and Moral Perspective
“We must view the PMOI from a humane and moral perspective and our approach must be based on true Arabic principles to live with respect in this country which is known for its hospitality and generosity,” he added.
“The Iraqi government preventing the entrance of journalists to Camp Liberty is not right because journalists are free to go to any location in Iraq, including Camp Liberty. We must not be ashamed or hesitate about expressing the facts as they truly are,” he continued.
PMOI Must Be Based on Logic
“Our approach towards the PMOI must be based on logic according to humane standards and resulting from a completely Iraqi decision, considering Iraq’s reputation, history and its people, regardless of other political side-effects.
“It is worth noting that Camp Liberty, in central Baghdad, houses Camp Ashraf residents, whom based on an agreement between the Iraqi Government and the UN have been transferred to this camp until their departure to a third country,” Dr. Mutlak finalized.
