Hawzah News Agency- The announcement comes as hundreds of thousands of Shia pilgrims from Iraq and abroad travel for Arbaeen, one of the most significant religious observances in Shia Islam. The pilgrimage marks the end of a 40-day mourning period following Ashura, which commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE.
“It has been observed that some political and service groups are displaying images of His Eminence on their banners and posters in public spaces,” the statement said. “We again stress our rejection of this act and request everyone to refrain from doing so''.
While the directive is seen by many as an expression of humility and a reminder to keep the focus on the Shia Imams during religious commemorations, it also underscores concerns over the politicization of Sistani’s image—particularly in the lead-up to parliamentary elections. The influential cleric is widely known for his consistent stance of non-involvement in electoral politics.
Sistani’s office called on relevant authorities to “take the appropriate action in this regard''.
Sistani is Iraq’s most senior Shia cleric and one of the highest-ranking marjas in the Shia religious establishment.
Source: 964 Media
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