Electricity in the coffin: Iraqis protest power outages
Shafaq News/ On Saturday, dozens of residents in Najaf staged a protest over escalating electricity shortages, as soaring temperatures strain Iraq’s already fragile power infrastructure.
According to Shafaq News correspondent, participants urged authorities to restore power, raising a coffin labeled “electricity” in a symbolic condemnation of the collapse in service provision.
The protest ended without incident, following similar demonstrations in other provinces, including Basra and Dhi Qar.
The Ministry of Electricity blamed the disruptions on fuel shortages, overdue maintenance, and excessive consumption, and announced emergency measures to stabilize production and improve grid performance.
Despite over $60B in investment since 2003, Iraq’s national power system remains crippled by outdated infrastructure, mismanagement, and insufficient generation capacity, forcing millions to rely on private generators.
