On Friday, Muqtada al-Sadr, leader of the National Shiite Movement (formerly the Sadrist Movement), called on the Iraqi parliament to declare "Eid al-Ghadir" a public holiday in Iraq. In a statement, al-Sadr said, "By the order of the Iraqi people and the moderate national majority of all its sects: the Iraqi Council of Representatives must legislate a law making the 18th of Dhu al-Hijjah the Day of Ghadir a public holiday for all Iraqis, regardless of their affiliation or belief."
Al-Sadr added: "This is a recommendation for everyone who believes in humanity, goodness, and justice," urging the Shiite national movement to support this decision through all available peaceful and legal means, each according to their capacity. He emphasized that "this matter is a support for religion, sect, belief, and the homeland, and for all lovers of moderation from both Shiites and Sunnis, as well as the oppressed whom Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib defended."
