Iraqi PM’s coalition leads in parliamentary elections, preliminary results show

The Reconstruction and Development Coalition, led by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, has emerged as the frontrunner in the country’s parliamentary elections, according to the country’s electoral commission.

Preliminary results released on Wednesday revealed that al-Sudani's coalition secured 411,026 votes, putting them ahead of their competitors. The Progress Party, headed by former Parliament Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi, and the State of Law Coalition, led by former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, followed in the vote count. Despite al-Sudani’s lead, the competition remains tight as results continue to come in.

Voter turnout was reported to be 56.11 percent nationwide, reflecting a relatively high level of engagement in a country that has faced years of instability. However, the election process has been marked by skepticism, particularly among young voters, many of whom view the elections as a tool for established political factions to further divide Iraq's oil wealth.

Al-Sudani, who is seeking a second term in office, has faced criticism from younger generations who feel disillusioned with Iraq's political system. Despite this, he has positioned himself as the leader who can bring stability to the country after years of political turmoil. Al-Sudani has emphasized his efforts to distance himself from the very factions that helped bring him to power, claiming he is working to steer Iraq toward a more prosperous future.

The results of the election are being closely watched both domestically and internationally, as Iraq continues to grapple with political and economic challenges. While al-Sudani’s coalition is leading, the final outcome will depend on the distribution of seats among the various parties and coalitions in the coming days.

Tags

News Politics Iraq