Iraqi Protesters Gather for 'Day of Regret'

People have gathered to protests against the government of PM Nuri al-Maliki over corruption, unemployemtn and poor public services. Photo by EPA/BGNES

Protesters have been gathering in cities across Iraq for a "Day of Regret" protests against Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki's government despite the curfew on vehicles.

The demonstrators have decided to take to the streets against corruption, unemployment and poor public services in Iraq, Radio Free Europe informed Friday.

According to the report, several hundred people had gathered in central Baghdad's Tahrir Square by midmorning, chanting "Liar, liar, Nuri al-Maliki" and "Oil for the people, not for the thieves".

People were waving banner reading "Where has the people's money gone?" and "Yes for democracy and the protection of freedom".

Police was reportedly watching from the sidelines, not intervening.

The "Day of Regret" follows last week's "Day of Rage" and is a reference to the anniversary of the parliamentary elections.

Last week, protests brought tens of thousands into the streets and ended in fatal clashes with the police. At least 16 people died and more than 130 were wounded.

So far, Maliki has had dual response to the protests. He has attempted to shut them down, as security forces have threatened civil society leaders, journalists and other critics.

However, he has also attempted to appease the demonstrators by offering to slash his salary and provide food rations. He also set a 100-day deadline for his cabinet to show results.

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