Over 40 Candidates File for Iraqi Presidency as Deadline Looms; KDP and PUK Still Without Nominees

Peregraf —More than 40 candidates have submitted their names for the Iraqi presidency ahead of tomorrow’s close-of-business deadline. Despite the high volume of applicants, neither the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) nor the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) has officially named a nominee.

While Iraq’s post-2003 power-sharing system traditionally reserves the presidency for the Kurds—and specifically the PUK— follow-ups by Peregraf indicates that several non-Kurdish candidates, including Arabs, have entered the race. While some applicants are independents or former members of the two main Kurdish parties, political observers suggest their chances of securing the post are slim.

A lack of consensus between the KDP and PUK persists despite ongoing negotiations. Political sources warn that if the deadlock continues, the parties may field rival candidates rather than presenting a unified front.

This impasse follows recent tensions over the Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, another position within the Kurdish "quota." That contest required three rounds of voting; the PUK initially withheld support for the KDP’s nominee, only backing a replacement candidate in the final round to secure a win.

Under the Iraqi Constitution, presidential candidates must be Iraqi-born to Iraqi parents, at least 40 years old, and possess full legal capacity. They must also have a clean criminal record—specifically regarding "moral turpitude"—and a reputation for integrity and loyalty to the country. Furthermore, they must hold a degree from a recognized university and not be subject to Accountability and Justice (de-Ba'athification) laws.

Following the conclusion of Parliament’s first session on December 30, 2025, the constitution mandates that a president be elected within 30 days. The vote is a vital step in finalizing the Iraqi federal government. Once elected, the president has 15 days to task a nominee from the largest parliamentary bloc with forming a government. That nominee then has 30 days to present a cabinet and a governing program to Parliament for a vote of confidence.