The electoral marathon in Iraq has begun; all eyes are on the final decision of the Sadr Movement

Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) - International Service: According to Tasnim, the Iraqi Supreme Election Commission is seriously preparing for the elections. The process of updating the voter list has begun and the laws related to the groups and movements participating in the competitions are being drafted and approved. Political parties have also begun their consultations to form electoral coalitions a long time ago.

 

Ambiguity in the role of the Sadr Movement:

 

The Sadr Movement, led by Muqtada Sadr, is one of the main and influential players in the Iraqi political scene. However, the movement’s position on the upcoming elections is still unclear. On the one hand, Muqtada al-Sadr has urged his supporters to update their voter registration information. On the other hand, he has apparently personally boycotted the election process.

 

What do analysts say?

In an interview with Tasnim News Agency, political analyst Imad al-Musafer described the Sadr Movement’s absence from the elections as a “central issue,” saying: “It is not yet clear whether they will participate in the elections or not; but the news indicates that Mr. Sadr insists on participation; perhaps they will allow the Sadr Movement’s bases to participate widely in the elections.”

 

Referring to the role of newly established Shiite parties in the previous elections, al-Musafer noted that these parties were able to take many of the seats of Shiite coalitions, which prevented the Coordination Framework from gaining the necessary majority in parliament.

 

The impact of the Sudanese government on the elections:

Some analysts believe that the relative successes of the government of Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shia al-Sudani could attract “gray” votes (hesitant or indifferent voters) and increase the participation rate in the elections.

 

How are the upcoming elections different from previous ones?

 

One of the important features of the upcoming elections is the competition between Shia parties and movements. The emergence of new and independent parties on the Iraqi political scene has caused traditional and larger coalitions to face new challenges.

 

Outlook:

With the official start of the electoral marathon in Iraq, all eyes are on the final decision of the Sadrist movement. Whether or not Sadr will participate in the elections, and if so, with what coalition and for what purpose, will have a significant impact on the future political makeup of Iraq. The outcome of the 2025 parliamentary elections will undoubtedly outline the roadmap for the country’s political future.