New federal court chief justice, parliament speaker discuss legal cooperation

BAGHDAD — Speaker of Parliament Mahmoud Al-Mashhadani met Monday with Judge Mundhir Ibrahim, the new president of the Federal Supreme Court, and other court members, according to a statement from the speaker’s office.

Al-Mashhadani expressed support for the court, calling it “one of the most important institutions in the structure of the Iraqi state,” and said the public expects it to perform its duties “professionally to maintain Iraq’s security and stability.”

Judge Ibrahim said cooperation between parliament and the judiciary would have “a significant impact in combating administrative and financial corruption.”

Iraq’s Federal Supreme Court held its first consultative meeting under newly appointed President Judge Mundhir Ibrahim last week. The meeting, attended by all court members, comes after weeks of internal upheaval. On June 29, Judge Ibrahim 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.

Statement from Al-Mashhadani’s office:

Parliament Speaker Dr. Mahmoud Al-Mashhadani met on Monday with Judge Mundhir Ibrahim, the new president of the Federal Supreme Court, along with other court members, wishing them success in their duties.

Al-Mashhadani affirmed the parliament’s support for the Federal Supreme Court and its responsibilities, describing it as one of the most important institutions in the structure of the Iraqi state. He said the Iraqi people expect the court to carry out its duties professionally to maintain Iraq’s security and stability, especially amid current legal disputes that require wise solutions.

Judge Ibrahim welcomed Al-Mashhadani and praised his role in managing parliamentary affairs and advancing the legislative process. He stated that cooperation between the legislative and judicial institutions will have a significant impact in combating administrative and financial corruption.

Both sides agreed to enhance constructive and joint cooperation within constitutional and legal frameworks to support the path of building a state of law, serving the Iraqi people and achieving their best interests.