Maliki, Khazali discuss breaking deadlock ahead of parliament’s first session

BAGHDAD — State of Law Coalition leader Nouri al-Maliki met Thursday with Qais al-Khazali, secretary-general of Asaib Ahl al-Haq, to discuss efforts to overcome what Khazali’s office called a “political deadlock” ahead of Monday’s first session of Iraq’s newly elected parliament.

“The secretary-general received Mr. Al-Maliki to discuss breaking the political deadlock and preparations for next Monday’s session,” a statement from Khazali’s office said.

The statement said the meeting also addressed “the latest political developments in the country,” including “ways to resolve the political impasse and the importance of completing preparations and requirements for holding the upcoming session,” while stressing “the need to prioritize national interests and joint action among political forces in order to strengthen stability.”

President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid issued a republican decree on Dec. 16 calling the newly elected Council of Representatives to convene its first session on Dec. 29. The decree stipulates that the opening session will be chaired by the oldest member of parliament, in line with constitutional requirements.

Iraq’s Nov. 11 elections filled all 329 seats in parliament. The Federal Supreme Court ratified the final results earlier this month, formally triggering the constitutional timetable for forming the next government.

Separately, the Supreme Judicial Council said Chief Justice Faiq Zidan met Wednesday with MP Amer al-Fayez, who is set to preside over the opening session as the oldest lawmaker. The council said the meeting discussed constitutional requirements for holding the session, including the obligation to elect the speaker of parliament and two deputies.