The Iraqi political satirist who weaponized laughter

Before 2003, Iraqi citizens were unable to choose the sources from which they received news, or the radio programs and television channels they listened to or watched. Instead, under Saddam Hussein, they were limited to what the regime chose for them, since the government was the sole owner of all media outlets. As is the case under any totalitarian regime, they were told what to read, watch and think.

Saddam’s suppression of basic freedoms reached the point of punishing anyone who owned a satellite TV dish and dared to wonder how the free world thought, exchanged information or even enjoyed entertainment programs.

Following the toppling of his regime, however, dozens of private media outlets were founded and Iraqis could finally watch anything they desired without facing harsh consequences. This opened the door for a new generation to explore journalism as a career.

Since then, many talk shows have discussed the political, security and economic situation in the country, based on the viewpoint of the station’s owner and the political party to which he belongs. However, criticizing certain political parties or exposing the extent of corruption in the country became so risky that journalists faced a difficult decision when it came to protecting not only their jobs, but also their lives.

Most of these shows failed to attract Iraqi teenagers and university students due to their failure to address common concerns and interests. Then, in 2014, a young Iraqi journalist, Ahmad Al-Basheer, came up with the idea of using dark comedy as a method of criticism, while speaking the language and sharing the interests of a younger generation. 

As Al-Basheer’s show moved from one television outlet to another amid numerous death threats, it gained a large viewership. This included millions of young Iraqis, both inside and outside the country, who were yearning for someone who could voice their concerns, instead of being used by political parties for electoral gain.

Al-Basheer became the voice of the protesters confronting the brutality of the security forces and pro-Iran militias

Dalia Al-Aqidi

Gradually, the show gained momentum, until it reached its peak audience in October 2019, when thousands of young Iraqis took to the streets of Baghdad and several southern provinces to express their anger at the high unemployment rate, lack of decent public services, widespread corruption and, most importantly, foreign interference in the country’s internal affairs.

Al-Basheer was known for crossing all the red lines — breaking political, cultural and religious taboos — and became the voice of the protesters confronting the brutality of the security forces and pro-Iran militias. More than 600 young activists were killed, while hundreds were kidnapped and tortured, and more than 30,000 innocent Iraqis injured. Al-Basheer’s job became more important for the voiceless and helpless, who wanted only a bright future for themselves and their children and a “homeland.” 

The comedian has become the protesters’ virtual guide and inspiration, raising their morale and informing them about the latest crackdowns.

Meanwhile, the authorities and pro-Iran media outlets have intensified their attacks, accusing Al-Basheer and young demonstrators of being paid by the US, describing them as “sons of the US embassy.”

Fortunately, Al-Basheer is not broadcasting or living in Iraq, which makes it impossible for the militias and corrupt politicians to silence him. However, many other journalists in Iraq have been kidnapped or killed for doing their job.

According to the Press Freedom Advocacy Association in Iraq, 233 violations against journalists were recorded in 2021, despite promises by Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi to protect the media and the right to free speech. These included assassination attempts, kidnappings, death threats, lawsuits, arrests, detention and physical intimidation.    

Iraqi journalists have long asked why the international community and media advocates ignore their sacrifices and struggles, while celebrating Western journalists for doing their job.

Regardless of our views on Al-Basheer’s political satire, he is a hero who should be encouraged, celebrated and supported. He has chosen to fight oppression, tyranny and terrorism through jokes and laughter tinged with bitterness and sadness. Iraq needs more like Ahmad Al-Basheer and fewer corrupt, sectarian and criminal political players.

• Dalia Al-Aqidi is a senior fellow at the Center for Security Policy. Twitter: @DaliaAlAqidi