Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani congratulated Nouri al-Maliki on Maliki’s nomination for prime minister, emphasizing support for Iraq’s constitutional process. The call highlighted efforts to ensure political stability and national unity.
The phone conversation took place on Sunday, following Iraq’s Shiite Coordination Framework announcing Maliki as its candidate. Barzani expressed hope that Maliki would form a government meeting citizens’ expectations and addressing Iraq’s pressing challenges.
Maliki thanked Barzani for the congratulatory message. He acknowledged the support and expressed commitment to working with national forces to form an effective government.
The Coordination Framework nominated Maliki citing his extensive political and administrative experience. The bloc said he possesses the leadership skills needed to manage the state efficiently. It emphasized that forming a government capable of safeguarding Iraq’s security and delivering public services is a top priority.
Following Iraq’s mid-November legislative elections, the Coordination Framework declared itself the largest bloc in parliament. This gives it a key role in selecting the next prime minister. Maliki currently leads the State of Law Coalition, which won 29 seats in the elections.
The nomination follows the withdrawal of incumbent Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, whose Reconstruction and Development Coalition secured 46 seats. This change reshapes the dynamics of government formation and political negotiations.
If Maliki secures enough parliamentary votes, he will begin a third term as prime minister. He previously served from 2006 to 2010 and from 2010 to 2014. During his last term, he faced criticism for security failures following ISIS’s 2014 offensive and allegations of corruption.
The next step in forming Iraq’s government is the election of the president, which must be completed by January 28. Parliament scheduled its eighth session for Tuesday to elect the largely ceremonial position. Traditionally, the presidency has gone to the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, though the Kurdistan Democratic Party is also seeking the role.
In conclusion, Maliki’s nomination for prime minister marks a significant moment in Iraq’s political process. Officials continue discussions to ensure a government capable of addressing national priorities, security, and citizen expectations. Analysts note that cooperation between Iraqi political blocs and Kurdistan leadership will shape Iraq’s political landscape in the months ahead.
