Niqash: What government procedures are in place to maintain control over awakening councils and people committees in the future? Aren’t you afraid that these councils may turn against the government and prevent it from implementing policies which may not be in line with the tribal vision?
Al-Bakhati: There are many procedures in place to control all forms of non-state militias, and we have no problems with people committees because they are still under control. In regard to the awakening councils, there are tribal parties who coordinate between the councils and the prime ministry, keeping disagreements contained within limits. We do not want to transform the country into a power struggle between armed groups.
We are seeking to put weapons under the exclusive control of the state, and to respond to all demands through dialogue.
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