Amedi warns PM nomination deadline cannot be delayed with two days remaining

BAGHDAD — President Nizar Amedi on Friday pressed the Coordination Framework to submit a prime minister nominee before a constitutional deadline expires in two days, describing the process as “a constitutional entitlement that does not tolerate delay.”

In a post on X, Amedi called completing the nomination “a national responsibility that falls on all parties,” saying it would enhance political stability and respond to public expectations for a functioning government. He added that the current stage requires prioritizing the country’s interests “especially in light of the sensitive conditions the country is going through.”

The statement came after the Coordination Framework postponed a meeting originally scheduled for Friday, again citing the need for more dialogue. The bloc had already pushed the session from Wednesday to Friday before delaying it further.

The Dawa Party has maintained Maliki remains its official nominee and that his candidacy “has not been withdrawn,” while rival factions say eight blocs back incumbent Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani against four for Maliki. Two other names remain under consideration: Basim al-Badri, head of the Accountability and Justice Commission, and Ihsan al-Awadi, director of Sudani’s office, proposed by the Reconstruction and Development bloc.

Maliki’s candidacy has become a standoff. Nominated following the 2025 elections, he faced mounting pressure to stand down but refused to withdraw, repeatedly absenting himself from framework meetings rather than formally conceding. Trump warned Washington could reconsider support for Iraq if Maliki became prime minister, and the Foreign Ministry said the U.S. message included an “explicit hint” of sanctions.

Under Article 76, Amedi has 15 days from his April 12 inauguration to task the largest bloc’s nominee with forming a government. Two days remain.