Trial of Shaswar Abdulwahid Postponed for Second Time in Sulaimani
The Sulaimani court has rescheduled Abdulwahid’s hearing to September 2, while keeping the existing arrest order in effect. A source from the NGM told Kurdistan24 that the session was adjourned due to incomplete documentation regarding the case.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — The second court session for Shaswar Abdulwahid, leader of the New Generation Movement (NGM), was scheduled to be held on Thursday in Sulaimani, but it was postponed for a second time, highlighting ongoing legal and political uncertainties surrounding the case.
The Sulaimani court has rescheduled Abdulwahid’s hearing to September 2, while keeping the existing arrest order in effect. A source from the NGM on Thursday told Kurdistan24 that the session was adjourned due to incomplete documentation regarding the case. It remains unclear whether the hearing will proceed on the new date or face further delays.
Abdulwahid was arrested on August 12, over allegations of “defamation and intimidation” linked to the case of former Kurdistan parliament member Shadi Nawzad. During the first session on August 21, Abdulwahid denied the charges and requested that witnesses be summoned to confirm his innocence.
The Sulaimani Criminal Court on Tuesday announced that Abdulwahid has been sentenced to six months in prison in absentia under Article 431 of the Iraqi Penal Code No. 111 of 1969, which pertains to threats. According to the Sulaimani Investigation Court’s Second Criminal Branch, the arrest order was issued on Aug. 3, 2025.
The case has attracted significant attention because Abdulwahid is a prominent political figure in the Kurdistan Region, known for his critical stance toward established parties. Observers note that repeated delays in the court proceedings could be seen as both procedural caution and a reflection of broader political sensitivities, given Abdulwahid’s influence and public support, in the Sulaimani area.
The origins of the case, dating to 2021, involve allegations that have been disputed by Abdulwahid and his supporters, who argue that the legal actions are being prolonged for political reasons.
Observers suggest that the handling of Abdulwahid’s trial may carry implications beyond the courtroom. For his supporters, delays may appear as a form of political pressure, while opponents emphasize the need for due process and careful examination of evidence before reaching a verdict.
As the new hearing approaches on September 2, attention remains focused on how the court balances legal procedure with the heightened political sensitivity in Sulaimani province surrounding Abdulwahid and the NGM, and whether the trial will proceed smoothly or face further postponements.
