Political parties and blocs in Iraq are actively preparing for early engagement in the upcoming provincial elections, even before the official announcement. This initiative comes despite the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) decision to commence party registration in early July.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has reaffirmed his government's commitment to preparing for local elections by the end of 2023.
During a meeting with the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General in Iraq, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, Al-Sudani stated that “the government is actively engaged in the preparation process for the elections and has begun to provide all the necessary requirements for the success of the upcoming electoral events for provincial councils, while working to create the necessary conducive environment for them.”
Al-Sudani’s affirmations came after the Iraqi Parliament voted to set November 6 as the date for provincial elections, which will encompass 15 out of the 18 provinces, excluding the three provinces of the Kurdistan Region.
The premier’s affirmations served as the official announcement marking the start of genuine competition for these elections, which have been postponed for a decade.
However, the specter of the Sadrists heavily looms over these elections, amidst conflicting stances regarding their participation.
The leader of the Sadrist Movement, Muqtada al-Sadr, has not yet announced his position regarding the possibility of his movement’s participation in the upcoming provincial elections.
This is despite a statement made by an unnamed Sadrist leader declaring the participation of the Sadrists with three electoral lists.
Al-Sadr’s office or political entity has neither denied nor confirmed the statement attributed to the anonymous leader.
The Sadrist Movement remains a dominant force, especially within the Shiite factions where al-Sadr is a major competitor in Baghdad, as well as in the central and southern provinces.
Civil forces, which are greatly influenced by al-Sadr’s presence or absence, have begun announcing their preparations for the upcoming elections, regardless of the Sadrists’ participation.
This indicates that elections will be highly contentious in terms of confrontation and participation, leading to a potential shift in alliance dynamics.
