Iraqi Government Formation Talks Stall Amidst Disagreements Over Prime Minister
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, the political negotiations to form a new government in Iraq are facing complications as disagreements escalate within the Coordination Framework, a coalition of predominantly Shia parties that secured victories in the recent general elections. The central point of contention revolves around the selection of the next prime minister.
Despite repeated assertions from within the Coordination Framework regarding their capacity to resolve the matter expeditiously within the bounds of the constitution, sources familiar with the situation suggest a more intricate political reality, fostering internal disputes.
According to a source close to the Coordination Framework’s sessions, the recent meeting, attended by outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, was marked by debates regarding the prime ministerial candidate. Simultaneously, external pressures are mounting, advocating for the selection of an individual acceptable on both regional and international levels.
The Reconstruction and Development Alliance, led by Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, has reiterated its support for his candidacy, citing his track record in government administration and his command of a substantial number of parliamentary seats as justification for their endorsement.
Conversely, Nouri al-Maliki, the head of the State of Law Coalition, has presented himself as a suitable candidate for the premiership.
Mohammed al-Mayali, a prominent member of the coalition, told Al-Akhbar that Nouri al-Maliki possesses extensive experience in governing the nation and is capable of leading Iraq through this critical juncture. Al-Maliki’s expertise in security, economic, and political affairs positions him as the most qualified candidate to form a robust government capable of addressing both internal and external challenges.
Observers suggest that groups affiliated with the Iraqi resistance place greater trust in Nouri al-Maliki, potentially benefiting him in negotiations concerning integration or disarmament. Previous prime ministers have encountered difficulties in managing this issue, while Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has conditioned success in this area on the support of the international coalition and the integration of these groups into Iraqi state institutions.
Political researcher Mohammed al-Ali noted that Shia parties are engaged in substantive discussions regarding the selection of the prime minister, taking into account factors such as parliamentary weight, alliances with Sunni and Kurdish factions, and international and regional pressures. These discussions underscore a critical phase for Iraq, requiring broad internal consensus to avert a political crisis that could impede the functioning of the next government.
An informed source from the Coordination Framework’s sessions indicated the potential introduction of new names should disagreements persist, with indications suggesting increased pressure on the Independent High Electoral Commission to postpone the final ratification of the results to control the timeline for government formation.
Political analyst Ayed al-Hilali, affiliated with al-Sudani, told Al-Akhbar that the Coordination Committee has thus far presented approximately 20 names as potential prime ministerial candidates. However, these names remain under consideration and have not yet reached the final or official nomination stage.
