Peregraf
The Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) has announced a two-day extension for the submission of candidate lists for the upcoming parliamentary elections, now set to conclude on November 26. The commission stressed that this will be the final deadline, with no further extensions planned.
The elections are scheduled for November 11, 2025, and preparations are in full swing under a revised framework aimed at improving transparency and efficiency.
This year, candidates must submit their applications via a newly introduced electronic system. Political parties are required to collect a special access code in person from the IHEC headquarters in Baghdad, while independent candidates face stricter conditions.
To qualify, an independent candidate must gather signatures from 500 registered voters in their electoral district. These endorsements must be submitted electronically and verified against the national voter registry.
In addition to procedural requirements, all candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:
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Be an Iraqi citizen over the age of 30
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Hold at least a bachelor’s degree
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Possess full legal and civil capacity
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Have a clean criminal record, free of convictions related to dishonor, corruption, or financial crimes
Furthermore, active members of the military and security forces, sitting judges, and current election commission members are barred from running.