Rashid calls for completing constitutional obligations, accelerating key legislation

BAGHDAD — President Abdul Latif Rashid on Tuesday underscored the importance of strengthening cooperation between the executive and legislative branches to reinforce political stability.

The remarks came during his reception of a delegation from the parliamentary bloc Abshir Ya Iraq, headed by MP Mustafa Sanad, at Baghdad Palace.

The meeting addressed the country’s general situation and legislative matters, the presidency said. Rashid emphasized that coordination between the branches would help speed up approval of key legislation and safeguard public interests.

He highlighted the need to complete constitutional requirements to strengthen “the principle of peaceful transfer of power,” stressing that all parties must act with national responsibility.

Iraq’s government formation has stalled since the 2025 elections. Parliament must elect a president before a prime minister can be tasked, but the constitutional deadline has passed.

The Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan have not agreed on a presidential candidate. The PUK has named Nizar Amedi, while the KDP has nominated Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein.

The Shiite Coordination Framework has nominated former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. President Donald Trump said the United States would not continue support for Iraq if al-Maliki returned to office.