Title: Provincial elections in Iraq: a test for the existing government
Introduction :
The provincial elections in Iraq, which will take place on Monday, December 18, are a major issue for the country. With the participation of 17 million voters, these elections will be used to elect 285 provincial councilors in 15 provinces of the country. As the current government seeks to consolidate its power, influential Shiite leader Moqtada Sadr has decided to boycott these elections, highlighting political tensions in the country. This election will also be a test for the government in place, which seeks to restore citizen confidence by improving public services and infrastructure.
A major boycott:
The boycott of the elections by Moqtada Sadr, an influential Shiite leader and former government supporter, is a hard blow for those in power. Sadr, who recently joined the opposition, does not see these elections as a way to represent the interests of the people. His decision to boycott the elections highlights political tensions and citizens’ disillusionment with the endemic corruption ravaging the country.
A test for the government:
The government of Mohamed Chia al-Soudani, from a coalition of pro-Iran parties, sees these elections as an opportunity to consolidate its power and show its popularity among the population. Since coming to power, he has highlighted his policy of developing public services and infrastructure, but will this be enough to convince voters? High turnout in these elections will be a key indicator of citizen satisfaction with government actions.
The economic issues:
The current government emphasizes economic populism by distributing public sector jobs. This approach aims to attract support from young voters, who face high unemployment and economic hardship. The results of these elections will show whether this economic policy has succeeded in winning their trust and support.
The issue of corruption:
Provincial councils in Iraq enjoy significant powers, particularly in terms of allocating budgets in key sectors such as health, transport and education. However, these councils are often criticized for corruption and favoritism. The provincial elections will be an opportunity for voters to choose representatives who are committed to fighting corruption and serving the interest of the population.
Conclusion :
The provincial elections in Iraq are a crucial moment for the country. As the current government seeks to consolidate its power, Moqtada Sadr’s boycott highlights political tensions and citizen disillusionment. The outcome of these elections will be an indicator of voters’ confidence in the government and their willingness to fight endemic corruption. The path to a more transparent and representative government remains a major challenge for Iraq, but these provincial elections offer an opportunity for renewal and change.