Iraq’s preparation for the 2025 parliamentary elections faces significant challenges from political disputes over proposed reforms. Concerns about electoral fraud, vote-buying, and intimidation persist, undermining the integrity of the voting process. The Independent High Electoral Commission has implemented biometric registration to combat some of these issues, but resistance to reform and manipulation by powerful factions complicate the path towards fair elections.
As Iraq gears up for its 2025 parliamentary elections, political factions are embroiled in disputes over proposed electoral amendments, leading to significant divisions within Parliament that may impede necessary reforms. Some political blocs advocate for stricter regulations to enhance electoral integrity, while others oppose these changes, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of the electoral system to political pressures.
The electoral process in Iraq has faced persistent allegations of malpractice. Although the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) asserts that elections are conducted fairly, critics and international observers frequently cite concerns regarding fraud, vote-buying, and undue political influence, which ultimately undermine the credibility of election outcomes.
Monetary influence plays a crucial role in Iraqi elections, with political parties expending substantial resources to influence voters. Reports indicate rampant vote-buying, especially in impoverished regions, with candidates reportedly offering payments ranging from $50 to $500 per vote in recent electoral cycles. This buying of votes continued into 2021, where estimates indicated that over $250 million was allocated towards these corrupt practices, undermining the electoral integrity even further.
The outcomes of elections have remained contentious despite the financial coercion, leading to disputes regarding alleged manipulation. The 2021 elections were particularly fraught with controversy, as accusations surfaced regarding the integrity of the electronic voting system. One prominent political faction’s leader, Hadi al-Amiri, vocally denounced the results as fabricated, illustrating the severe repercussions of electoral disputes.
In response to ongoing corruption, some politicians, like Shiite leader Muqtada al-Sadr, have distanced themselves from the political scene, opting to resign entirely to avoid associations with corrupt practices. This sentiment reflects a larger disillusionment among the populace regarding political accountability and integrity in Iraq.
Political factions have also strategically manipulated state institutions to bolster their electoral positions. Instances of using biased state media and distributing government resources in exchange for votes have been recorded, alongside the controversial issuance of temporary job contracts, further entwining politics with public resources.
Violence and intimidation also play a significant role in Iraq’s electoral process. Armed groups affiliated with political factions have been known to threaten candidates and disrupt opposition campaigns, thus creating an atmosphere of fear that stifles democratic competition. The assassination of political figures and the documented harassment of independent candidates underscore the perilous nature of the political landscape in Iraq.
Electoral oversight has also faced scrutiny, with accusations of infiltration impacting the IHEC’s credibility. Altercations have erupted over unaccounted votes in previous elections and delays in results announcements, warranting public outcry and protests that question the legitimacy of voting outcomes.
In a bid to enhance election monitoring, IHEC has initiated biometric voter registration to combat fraud, which has reportedly increased voter registration by 16% since the last elections. Despite these advancements, experts caution that while biometric systems fortify voter integrity, they do not alleviate external coercion that remains prevalent. Additionally, the efficacy of international observers is limited by their lack of enforcement capabilities, rendering them relatively powerless amid systemic electoral manipulation.
As discussions intensify around the necessary reforms ahead of the 2025 elections, proposals for an electoral restructuring have emerged. Suggestions include altering the seat allocation to better facilitate competition among candidates. Proponents argue that this could diminish the predominance of wealth-driven politics, yet others posit that the core issue lies within enforcement rather than systemic design.
Concerns about campaign financing disparities remain, as wealthier candidates continue to dominate access to resources that influence electoral outcomes, raising serious questions about the fairness of contests in various districts. Discussions about redistricting aim to ensure more localized competition, yet no substantial amendments have yet been passed due to existing political disagreements within the ruling bodies.
Political analysts advocate for a reevaluation of the parliamentary system, hinting that the current configuration may hinder effective governance. Emphasizing the paramount need for judicial oversight in elections, experts call for collaboration with legal professionals to ensure any reforms genuinely cater to the best interests of the populace.
In conclusion, Iraq’s political environment is fraught with challenges surrounding electoral fraud, political coercion, and financial influence, significantly undermining the integrity of its democratic processes. While various reforms have been proposed to enhance the electoral framework and reduce the impact of money and violence, substantial political resistance and differing opinions hinder progress. As Iraq approaches its 2025 elections, addressing these critical issues remains essential to fostering a more transparent and accountable electoral landscape.
Original Source: shafaq.com
