Iraq’s Federal Supreme Court reaffirms ‘independence’ in first meeting under new leadership

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Federal Supreme Court held its first consultative meeting under newly appointed President Judge Mundhir Ibrahim Hussein on Monday, affirming its commitment to constitutional jurisdiction and judicial independence.

The meeting, attended by all court members, comes after weeks of internal upheaval. On June 29, Judge Hussein was appointed to replace retiring Chief Justice Jassim Mohammed Abboud, who stepped down citing health reasons. His resignation followed a mass walkout by nine justices in protest of alleged political interference and internal conflicts.

The court confirmed Monday that those judges have since withdrawn their resignations, saying the issues that prompted them had been resolved.

In a statement, the court said it remains committed to fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities and would refrain from overstepping its jurisdiction. It emphasized its impartiality, stating it “stands at an equal distance from all political parties,” and declared its aim is to preserve Iraq’s political system and protect the constitutional rights of all communities.

The court also pledged not to interfere in the work of the legislative and executive branches, while reserving the right to review any of their decisions through constitutional litigation if they are deemed to violate the Constitution.

Regarding Iraq’s upcoming parliamentary elections, scheduled for Nov. 11, the court said its role will remain limited to what is outlined in the Constitution and that it “does not interfere in political disputes related to this issue.”