Iraq Holds First Provincial Council Elections in a Decade
Voting has commenced in Iraq for the first provincial council elections in ten years. The ruling Shiite Muslim alliance is expected to maintain its hold on power, while populist cleric Moqtada Al-Sadr, its main political rival, has chosen to boycott the elections. This vote will set the stage for the parliamentary elections scheduled for 2025, which will determine the balance of power in a country where Iranian-backed groups have gained political influence in recent years.
Background
The last local elections in Iraq took place in 2013 but were postponed due to the war against Daesh militants who had seized control of large parts of the country. However, the militants were eventually defeated, allowing for the resumption of democratic processes. The current election is crucial as it will shape the political landscape leading up to the parliamentary elections in four years.
Sadr’s Rivals Expected to Take Control
Sadr’s Shiite rivals, who prevented him from forming a government after he emerged as a winner in the 2021 parliamentary polls, are likely to gain control of most local councils, particularly in the predominantly Shiite southern provinces. This outcome would further solidify the power of the ruling Shiite alliance, known as the Coordination Framework, which has close ties to Iran. By gaining control of local councils, the alliance will have access to state oil wealth that can be allocated towards local projects and services, thereby deepening their influence.
The Power of the Shiite Alliance
The Shiite alliance already forms the largest bloc in parliament after members of Sadr’s party withdrew. With their dominance in local councils, they will be able to wield significant power at both the provincial and national levels. This consolidation of power could have implications for Iraq’s relationship with Iran, as the Shiite alliance is known to have close ties with the Iranian government.
The Role of Provincial Councils
The provincial councils play a crucial role in Iraq’s governance structure. The 285 council members elected in this vote will have the responsibility of appointing powerful provincial governors and overseeing local administration. Their decisions will impact the daily lives of Iraqis, as they will determine the allocation of resources and the implementation of policies at the local level.
Future Elections in Kurdistan Region
While voting is taking place in 15 of Iraq’s 18 provinces, elections in the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region, which comprises three provinces, are expected to be held next year. The outcome of these elections will also have significant implications for the balance of power in Iraq.
Conclusion
The provincial council elections in Iraq mark an important step towards democratic governance and the reestablishment of local administration after years of conflict with Daesh militants. The ruling Shiite alliance is expected to extend its grip on power, while Moqtada Al-Sadr’s boycott highlights the ongoing political rivalries within the country. As Iraq moves forward, these elections will shape the political landscape leading up to the parliamentary elections in 2025, ultimately determining the future direction of the nation.