Hundreds took to the streets in Iraqi cities on June 10, denouncing what they say was a lack of government progress after a 100-day deadline set by Prime Minister Nuri Al-Maliki expired. About 400 protesters converged on Baghdad’s main Tahrir Square, carrying banners and chanting slogans against Maliki’s government and calling for better public services, notably electricity. But the demonstration was overshadowed by a larger rally of some 3,000 people, also at Tahrir Square, calling for the execution of 25 accused insurgents, whom authorities allege took part in the 2006 massacre of a wedding party.
Security forces were out in large numbers at the square, which was closed to vehicle traffic. The thoroughfare is located in the heart of Baghdad, the traditional site for weekly demonstrations. Hundreds of anti-government protesters also converged on the city of Hilla and Basra, both south of Baghdad. Authorities have also banned vehicle traffic in Tikrit city and Diyala province, north of the capital. “Our hearts are stronger than your government,” declared a banner carried by anti-government demonstrators at Tahrir Square.