Iraq's Political Turmoil: The Vacancy of Parliament Speaker and Regional Tensions
Iraq is currently experiencing a political crisis, with the position of Speaker of Parliament remaining vacant since the dismissal of Mohammed Al-Halbousi in November 2021. This vacancy has raised concerns about the stability of the political process in Iraq, especially amidst rising tensions due to the Israeli aggression on Gaza. The First Deputy Speaker, Mohsen Al-Mandalawi, is managing the position temporarily, but the lack of a permanent speaker highlights deeper issues within the political landscape. Prominent politician Saleh al-Mutlaq has voiced his concerns about the ongoing rift between the political elite and citizens, warning of potential chaos if the situation is not addressed soon.
Al-Mutlaq criticized the dual stance of Western countries towards the Palestinian issue, emphasizing Iraq's official and popular support for Gaza. He called for a stronger Arab and Islamic response to the violence, reflecting a broader sentiment in Iraq that aligns with regional solidarity against perceived injustices. As the political conflicts intensify among Shiite, Sunni, and Kurdish factions, the future of Iraq's governance hangs in the balance, with many fearing that the current trajectory could lead to a collapse of the political process.
The Fragility of Iraq's Political Landscape and the Role of External Influences
The political process in Iraq has been described as captive to external influences, with many leaders having ties to foreign powers. Al-Mutlaq highlighted that the ongoing conflicts and the policies of loyalty to foreign entities hinder Iraq's progress. He expressed concern over the current constitution's loopholes, which could be exploited by dominant parties to marginalize others, further deepening the dissatisfaction among the populace.
The gap between the political elite and citizens is widening, primarily due to the failure to provide essential services and address local demands. This disconnection could lead to increased abstention in upcoming elections and potentially larger demonstrations, as citizens lose faith in the democratic process. Al-Mutlaq also assessed the performance of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, acknowledging his efforts to provide services but noting the political obstacles he faces from various factions that may not support his success.
As the international coalition's presence in Iraq is debated, Al-Mutlaq stressed that any withdrawal must be strategically planned to avoid chaos and ensure national security. With the complex interplay of internal politics and external pressures, Iraq's future remains uncertain, as the nation grapples with both its governance challenges and the broader implications of regional conflicts.
