Framework meets to discuss cabinet formation as Zaidi begins government formation

BAGHDAD — Leaders of the Coordination Framework held their first meeting since nominating Ali al-Zaidi as prime minister-designate on Tuesday, focusing on ministerial portfolios and criteria for selecting cabinet members.

The meeting, held at the office of National Approach Alliance head Abdul Hussein al-Mousawi, was attended by outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada Secretary-General Abu Alaa al-Walaei was absent for the second consecutive time.

Discussions centered on granting Zaidi final authority in choosing cabinet members “to ensure government harmony,” with leaders stressing that selections should be based on “standards of integrity, competence and national responsibility.” The framework’s statement said the current phase requires “the harmony of the upcoming government team to overcome turning points and achieve the aspirations of all Iraqi people.”

Cabinet negotiations had begun within hours of Zaidi’s nomination Monday. Firas al-Musallamawi, spokesperson for the Reconstruction and Development bloc, said his group expects “at minimum, four or five ministries, depending on the ministry and its size,” adding that the Shiite component is expected to receive 12 ministries in total.

Zaidi, a businessman, lawyer and owner of Dijlah TV, was described by political figures as a “compromise candidate” whose name had not featured prominently in earlier discussions. He has 30 days to form a cabinet and secure approval from the 329-member parliament.