Iraq’s Coordination Framework Declares Itself Largest Bloc, Begins Process to Nominate Next Prime Minister

Peregraf- The ruling Shiite Coordination Framework announced on Wednesday that it has formally registered as the largest parliamentary bloc after the Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) released the final election results earlier today. The bloc’s declaration confirms its intention to lead the next phase of government formation based on its substantial parliamentary majority.

The announcement followed the Framework’s regular meeting No. 250, held at the office of former Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi with the attendance of all its leaders. The gathering focused on evaluating the post-election landscape and outlining the political steps required to ensure a smooth transition to the next government in line with constitutional requirements.

In its statement, the Coordination Framework congratulated the Iraqi people and all political forces on the successful completion of the electoral process. It stressed that broad national cooperation will be essential for navigating the next stage, preserving political stability, and managing the country’s challenges through a unified approach among the major parties. 

The Framework emphasized the need to finalize all electoral entitlements within constitutional deadlines and in accordance with legal procedures. It said adhering to these timelines guarantees an orderly transfer of authority and protects the legitimacy of the democratic process, ensuring that the will of the voters is respected as Iraq enters a new political phase.

As the largest bloc, the Framework confirmed it will move ahead with nominating a candidate for Prime Minister. It also decided to form two leading committees: one dedicated to shaping a unified national vision and addressing state administration requirements, and another tasked with interviewing prime-ministerial candidates based on professional standards, national considerations, and the needs of the next government.

The meeting also reviewed criteria for selecting the next Prime Minister and discussed priorities for the government program. The Framework said the next administration must confront Iraq’s political, economic, and service-related challenges while advancing reforms that meet citizens’ expectations for stability, development, and improved public services across the country.

The Coordination Framework consists of multiple Shiite lists that together secured more than 170 seats in the 329-member parliament following the November 11 elections. Its components include Sudani’s Reconstruction and Development Coalition with 46 seats, Maliki’s State of Law with 29, Sadiqoun with 28, Badr with 21, Hikma with 18, Asas with 8, Ishraqat Kanun with 7, Huquq with 6, Tasmeem with 6 and Khidmat with 5. This majority enables the Framework to form the next government without relying on Sunni or Kurdish blocs.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, whose coalition emerged as the largest single list with 46 seats, is among roughly fifteen candidates under consideration. According to Framework sources, a key meeting will be held this week to review the shortlist, with the main competition currently between al-Sudani and Intelligence Service Chief Hamid al-Shatri. While Sudani is seen as the frontrunner due to broad support, Framework leaders insist the premiership will be decided by consensus and professional criteria, not solely by electoral performance.