Iraqis are gearing up for the first council elections in a decade, which are expected to solidify the influence of pro-Iran groups. The elections will involve 15 of Iraq’s 18 provinces, with a total of 285 candidates vying for seats in the powerful assemblies. The councils hold significant power, including the appointment of regional governors and the allocation of health, transport, and education budgets.
The government of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, who took office a year ago with strong support from pro-Tehran parties, sees the elections as a litmus test for his administration. The government is hoping for a high turnout to demonstrate public satisfaction with its economic policies and public services.
Voting commenced on Monday under tight security, with 17 million of Iraq’s 43 million people eligible to vote. However, voter apathy has been growing, particularly among the young population, who feel that they have not benefited from Iraq’s considerable oil wealth due to corruption and mismanagement.
The ruling Coordination Framework coalition, which is aligned with Iran and features Shia Islamist parties and factions of Hashed al-Shaabi, is expected to strengthen its position in the upcoming elections. Critics argue that the councils will foster corruption and clientelism.
Notably, influential Shia scholar Muqtada al-Sadr has boycotted the elections, citing opposition to the government’s policies and a desire to delegitimize it.
Overall, the elections are a significant step for Iraq’s democratic process, with measures in place to ensure diversity and representation, including reserved seats for minorities and a quota for female candidates. The outcome of the elections will have a lasting impact on the political landscape of the country and will be closely watched by regional and international observers.
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