Supreme Judicial Council warns candidates against incitement, unlawful speech ahead of elections

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Supreme Judicial Council on Wednesday warned parliamentary candidates against using inflammatory rhetoric or language deemed unlawful during campaign activities.

In a statement, the council said, “It has been noticed recently that some candidates appear in promotional events and gatherings using language that is not legally acceptable, which fuels division among citizens or insults other candidates outside the contexts of electoral competition, whether intentionally or not.”

The sixth term of Iraq’s parliament will be elected on Nov. 11, 2025. Campaigning is scheduled to begin on Oct. 9.

The council said such behavior “contradicts the constitution, laws, and current regulations, and may legally deprive them of participating in the elections.”

The electoral commission has disqualified 187 candidates from the November elections over legal and eligibility concerns, the head of its media team said in an interview with Al-Rabiaa TV.

It called on “all male and female candidates, individuals and parties, to avoid these speeches and statements, which will be closely monitored,” warning that legal measures will be taken against offenders.

Also on Wednesday, Federal Commission of Integrity said its field teams in several governorates are monitoring election preparations to ensure transparency and prevent the misuse of public funds and state resources.