Daijiworld Media Network - Baghdad

Baghdad, Nov 3: The United Nations has reiterated its full support for Iraq’s upcoming parliamentary elections scheduled for November 11, underscoring its commitment to promoting transparency, stability, and democratic progress in the country.

According to a statement issued by the Iraqi Foreign Ministry, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Iraq, Mohamed Al Hassan, met with Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein in Baghdad to review the final preparations for the national polls.

Al Hassan reaffirmed the UN’s “dedication to continuing its support for Iraq in the electoral process and in advancing political and economic stability.” He also praised the Iraqi authorities for their readiness and ongoing collaboration with UN experts to ensure a credible vote.

Foreign Minister Hussein, for his part, emphasized the government’s “commitment to guaranteeing free, transparent, and fair elections that truly reflect the will of the Iraqi people.” He expressed gratitude for the UN’s technical and advisory assistance, which he said had strengthened Iraq’s electoral institutions.

The two sides also discussed broader regional and international developments and explored ways to deepen cooperation between Iraq and the UN in promoting stability and sustainable development.

More than 21 million eligible voters are expected to cast their ballots to elect 329 members of parliament for a four-year term.

Meanwhile, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani assured that his government will provide full logistical and security support to the Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) to guarantee that the elections are conducted transparently and credibly.

Iraq’s last parliamentary election in 2021 was marred by post-election unrest and months of political stalemate before a new government was formed. The upcoming vote is seen as a crucial test of Iraq’s efforts to strengthen democratic governance and prevent a recurrence of instability.