Coordination Framework expects 12-13 ministries as cabinet negotiations enter final stretch

BAGHDAD — Political negotiations over ministerial portfolios are continuing ahead of Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi’s expected presentation of his cabinet to parliament next week, with factions outlining their expected shares in the incoming government.

State of Law Coalition member Salah Boushi said the Coordination Framework is expected to receive between 12 and 13 ministries under current agreements. “State of Law will have two ministries and a deputy prime minister position,” Boushi said. “This time we will go toward service ministries and leave sovereign ministries to other political forces.”

Ali al-Difaei, spokesperson for the Islamic Supreme Council, said the “Abshir Ya Iraq” bloc, in alliance with the Tasmeem bloc led by Basra Governor Asaad al-Eidani, is expected to receive a ministry, though the specific portfolio remains under discussion. Difaei also said Supreme Council leader Humam Hamoudi had reservations about Zaidi’s nomination and did not attend the framework meeting that confirmed him, objecting to “the rapid mechanism and to specifications that al-Zaidi does not possess, specifically political experience.” Hamoudi later met Zaidi and pledged support, telling him: “Today you are the nominee of the largest parliamentary bloc, and today our duty and assignment is to support you and ensure the success of your government.”

Zaidi submitted his government program to Parliament Speaker Haibat al-Halbousi on Thursday as part of the process leading to a confidence vote. He faces a constitutional deadline at the end of May to present his cabinet to parliament.