Iraqi Parliament Gears Up for Extraordinary Session to Elect New Speaker Amid Political Transition
The Iraqi Council of Representatives is poised for a pivotal moment as an extraordinary session is scheduled for Wednesday, December 13, to elect a new speaker following the recent removal of Mohammed al-Halbousi from the post.
The move comes in the aftermath of the federal court's decision on November 14, which terminated the parliamentary memberships of both Halbousi and Lays Dlemi, citing historical issues with the former. This development has prompted Iraqi Sunni parties to engage in discussions to nominate a successor for the crucial role of the Speaker of the parliament, a position integral to the electoral process.
The parliament is bracing for a significant political transition as it prepares to elect a new president during the upcoming session. Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani, president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), asserted on November 21 that the position of Speaker rightfully belongs to the Sunni community. He emphasized that any candidate aspiring to assume the role must secure consensus or majority approval from Sunni parties within the Iraqi parliament.
Former Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi, despite his recent removal, affirmed his commitment to abiding by the law and the constitution. He reassured his supporters, stating, "Despite recent challenges, they will be great again, and this election is a clear message, but our voice will remain loud."
The extraordinary session on December 13 holds the key to shaping Iraq's political landscape, with the selection of a new Speaker marking a crucial step in the broader electoral process. As the nation awaits this pivotal event, the focus remains on the negotiations and deliberations among Sunni parties to nominate a candidate who can navigate the intricate political terrain and lead the parliament through this transitional period.