Iraqi government predicts broader voter turnout in upcoming elections, citing ‘increased trust’

BAGHDAD — Iraqi government spokesman Bassem Al-Awadi said Monday that authorities expect broader participation in the upcoming parliamentary elections, attributing the anticipated increase to growing public trust in Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani’s administration and state institutions.

Voter turnout in Iraq’s last two parliamentary elections was notably low, reflecting widespread frustration with political elites and distrust of the electoral process. In the 2018 election, official turnout was just 44.5%, one of the lowest since 2003. The 2021 early election, held in response to mass protests, saw even lower participation, with only 41% of eligible voters casting ballots, according to the Independent High Electoral Commission. Many Iraqis boycotted the polls over unmet demands for reform, poor services, and persistent corruption.

Speaking to the state-run newspaper Al-Sabah, Al-Awadi said, “The Iraqi government, through the Council of Ministers, has set November 11 as the date for parliamentary elections. The government is fully committed to this date and will provide all necessary support to the Independent High Electoral Commission to ensure the elections are held on time.”

Al-Awadi emphasized that the elections would be protected from interference. “Elections are a technical process that depends on voting and counting through reliable and modern equipment. Therefore, no internal or external party can interfere. The government is committed, along with the commission, to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and protecting it from any breaches or interference,” he said.

He expressed optimism about turnout. “It’s too early to talk about participation rates or current expectations, but there is a strong hope for broader participation this cycle,” he said. “That hope is based on professional surveys showing increased trust in the state and government, a shift from previous years.”

Al-Awadi noted that Iraq’s political climate is more stable now than in past elections. “Previous Iraqi elections took place under difficult internal and regional conditions. Iraq managed to organize those elections despite the challenges. Today, Iraq’s situation is better than before. The government’s foreign policy has succeeded in distancing Iraq from crises, wars, and dangerous developments, and no tension will be allowed to affect the course of the electoral process,” he said.

On election security, Al-Awadi said, “From a security standpoint, the government will ensure the highest level of readiness to create appropriate conditions for Iraqi citizens and political parties to compete in a safe environment.”

He also addressed the future of the international coalition in Iraq, stating, “The timelines agreed upon between Iraq and the international coalition regarding the end of the coalition’s mission remain unchanged. There has been no amendment or delay.”