Accessibility links

Breaking News

Iraqi Supreme Court Ratifies May Election Results


Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr's coalition was the leading bloc in general elections in May. (file photo)
Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr's coalition was the leading bloc in general elections in May. (file photo)

Iraq's Supreme Court has ratified the results of general elections in May that were marred by allegations of fraud, its spokesman says.

The court endorsed the results on August 19, spokesman Ayas al-Samuk said in a statement, opening the way for lawmakers to convene to elect a speaker, then a president, and finally a prime minister and cabinet.

Negotiations between Shi’ite politicians are already under way to form a majority bloc that will name the upcoming prime minister.

Iraqis voted on May 12 to choose the make-up of their 329-member parliament.

Despite accusations of widespread violations in some provinces, a manual recount largely upheld the initial results, with Shi'ite leader Moqtada al-Sadr's coalition retaining its lead.

It was followed by an alliance led by pro-Iranian militia chief Hadi al-Amiri and current Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi's list.

The political uncertainty has raised tensions amid growing public anger over poor basic services, unemployment, and the slow pace of rebuilding following a devastating war with the Islamic State extremist group.

Based on reporting by Reuters and dpa

RFE/RL has been declared an "undesirable organization" by the Russian government.

If you are in Russia or the Russia-controlled parts of Ukraine and hold a Russian passport or are a stateless person residing permanently in Russia or the Russia-controlled parts of Ukraine, please note that you could face fines or imprisonment for sharing, liking, commenting on, or saving our content, or for contacting us.

To find out more, click here.

XS
SM
MD
LG