UN urges responsible voting as Iraq prepares for parliamentary elections

The United Nations has appealed for responsible participation as Iraq prepares for parliamentary elections scheduled for November 11. The call came during a visit by UN Special Representative Mohamed al Hassan to the headquarters of Iraq's Independent High Electoral Commission, where he reviewed final preparations for the crucial vote.

UN Confidence in Electoral Process

Accompanied by Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid, the UN delegation met with electoral commission chairman Omar Ahmed Mohammed and board members to assess election readiness. Al Hassan expressed confidence in the commission's work while emphasizing the need for "the highest degrees of integrity and independence to safeguard the security, interests, and future of Iraq."

Call for Conscious Voting

The UN representative voiced hope for widespread voter participation and urged Iraqis to exercise their constitutional rights with full sincerity. "Our hope is to see this dear and precious country move forward with steady and balanced steps toward greater stability and prosperity," al Hassan stated, encouraging citizens to make careful candidate selections based on capability rather than sectarian affiliations.

Election Details and Procedures

Iraq has entered an electoral silence period beginning Saturday morning, prohibiting political campaigning until polls close. According to the Independent High Electoral Commission, approximately 21 million Iraqis are eligible to choose among 7,768 candidates competing for 329 parliamentary seats. The special voting for security personnel, medical staff, and prisoners occurred on November 9, with general voting scheduled for November 11.

Political Context and Representation

The current parliament, elected in January 2022, serves a four-year term ending in January 2026. Iraq's political system traditionally distributes power among main communities, with the presidency held by Kurds, premiership by Shias, and parliament speakership by Sunnis. Shia parties and blocs currently maintain a majority in the legislature.