Calls for the dissolution of the federal parliament in Baghdad and the regional parliament in Erbil are intensifying in Iraq amid a political stalemate that the country is experiencing. The evident failure of both the executive and legislative authorities, coupled with security and economic crises, has prompted hundreds of intellectuals, writers, and citizens to demand new elections within six months.
These demands arose after the Supreme Judicial Council denied reports regarding a decision to dissolve the House of Representatives or to begin collecting signatures for such a move, indicating that these reports originated from a fake website.
Details of the Situation
These calls come at a time when Iraq is witnessing a security escalation, with the country facing attacks from American aircraft on the positions of the Popular Mobilization Forces and armed factions, while these factions retaliate with attacks on American interests and the Kurdistan Region. The federal parliament has failed to form a new government more than five months after the general elections, and the Kurdistan Parliament has also been unable to form its government despite a year and a half having passed since the elections.
In light of these circumstances, the group Iraqi Initiative, which includes a selection of intellectuals and activists, issued a statement calling for an end to the political stalemate and for correcting the course of the state. The statement emphasized that the deteriorating security and economic situation requires urgent measures, pointing out that the federal parliament has failed to elect a president and form a government, while the Kurdistan Parliament has been unable to fulfill its duties.
Background & Context
The roots of the political crisis in Iraq trace back to the quota system established after 2003, which has led to rampant corruption and failure to provide basic services to citizens. With rising regional tensions between the United States and Iran, Iraq's ability to safeguard its security and economy has come into question. Polls have shown that a significant percentage of Iraqis have lost faith in the authorities' ability to manage the country.
In this context, the Iraqi Initiative group considered that the deliberate obstruction of the political process constitutes a violation of the constitution, deepening the political stalemate and increasing citizens' suffering. The initiative proposed three main demands, including the dissolution of both parliaments and the holding of new elections.
Impact & Consequences
If political forces respond to the calls for dissolution, it could lead to a radical change in the Iraqi political landscape. However, writer Saadoun Mohsen Dhamd, one of the signatories of the initiative, ruled out that the House of Representatives would easily dissolve itself, pointing out that the quota system, which represents its solid foundation, will protect it. Nevertheless, Dhamd hopes that the pressure campaign will expand to gather enough signatures to embarrass the parliament.
Concerns are growing that the continuation of the current situation could exacerbate security and economic crises, further increasing citizens' frustration. Dhamd noted that the parliament bears the responsibility of holding sessions to discuss the security and economic threats facing the country.
Regional Significance
The repercussions of the political crisis in Iraq extend beyond its borders, affecting regional stability. Iraq, which suffers from internal divisions, could become a battleground for regional power struggles, complicating the situation in the region. Additionally, Iraq's failure to address its crises could negatively impact neighboring countries and increase tensions in regional relations.
In conclusion, the situation in Iraq remains tense, with increasing calls for the dissolution of both parliaments and the holding of new elections. Responding to these calls could be a step towards correcting the political course, but it requires genuine political will from the ruling powers.