In the aftermath of the recent removal of Mohammed Al-Halboosi from the position of Speaker, members of the Iraqi Council of Representatives are set to convene this Saturday to elect a new leader, as announced by the parliament on Thursday.

The Iraqi Federal Supreme Court's decision in mid-November to oust Al-Halboosi, citing charges of signature forgery, stirred political tensions in the country. The former governor of Anbar and prominent Sunni figure vehemently contested the verdict. Al-Halboosi was serving his second term as the Speaker at the time of his removal.

In response to the court's decision, at least three cabinet members from Al-Halboosi's party have resigned from Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani's government in protest, highlighting the deep divisions within the political landscape.

According to sources, Sunni political parties have yet to present a unified nominee for the vacant Speaker position. However, three potential successors have emerged: Salim Al Issawi, Sheikh Sha’lan, and Mahmood Mashhadani, each representing a potential direction for the future leadership of the Council.

It is important to note that Iraq's political structure traditionally follows an unofficial system, with top posts apportioned among major ethnic and sectarian components. The head of the legislative house is typically a Sunni, the republican president is filled by a Kurd, and the premiership goes to a Shia’.

As the nation anticipates the outcome of Saturday's session, the political landscape remains uncertain, with the selection of a new Speaker expected to play a crucial role in shaping Iraq's future trajectory.