Iraqi parliamentary elections; 23.9% turnout by midday and tense competition in the region and the south

Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) - International Service: In the Kurdistan Region, deep differences between the two main parties have prevented the formation of a local government after a year of elections, and now their competition has been extended to the federal election stage. Experts warn that this political deadlock could lead to an exacerbation of the rift and even field clashes.

 

In Basra province, the boycott of the elections by the Sadr Movement has created a new space for new political forces. 567 candidates are competing for 26 parliamentary seats, and the "Decision" coalition led by Basra Governor Asaad al-Aidani has a high chance of winning the seats. Analysts say the vacuum left by the Sadrists could benefit civil and independent parties, similar to previous elections in Dhi Qar and Maysan.

 

According to Tasnim, the Iraqi elections began at 7 am today and will continue until 6 pm. More than 1,200 foreign observers from 25 domestic and international organizations are monitoring the voting process. Officials have stressed that no serious problems have been observed in the election process so far and that preliminary results will be announced within the next 24 hours.