Iraqi police clash with Sadr supporters in Baghdad; 5 people

At least five people have been killed and scores of others injured during clashes with security forces in the Iraqi capital Baghdad.

There are conflicting reports about whether the fatalities are demonstrators or security forces. The protest turned violent after the demonstrators tried to force their way into Baghdad’s heavily-fortified Green zone. The protesters are supporters of the influential cleric Muqtada al-Sadr. They demand the formation of an independent electoral commission. Sadr supporters have been staging similar rallies since last summer, calling for reforms in the government. They say public services need to be improved and technocrats be appointed to government positions. Baghdad has repeatedly promised to meet the demands but it has failed to do so, given its engagement in an ongoing anti-Daesh campaign.