MPs Expect Resolution of Vacant Ministerial Portfolios Within 15 Days

A number of Parliament members underscored the urgency of completing the ministerial cabinet and filling vacant portfolios, noting that a fully formed government is crucial for stable decisions and improved public services. These MPs expect the resolution of vacant ministries within the next fifteen days. MP Faleh Al-Khazali informed the official newspaper that finalizing the Al-Zaidi government cabinet would significantly stabilize governmental decisions and enhance service and security ministries' performance. He emphasized Parliament's commitment to filling the nine vacant portfolios, repeatedly urging political forces to finalize their nominees and support the government for the Iraqi people's benefit. Al-Khazali added that ministers are bound by their ministry's law and the federal budget, stressing the need for competent, experienced individuals capable of advancing their departments. He expressed hope that the cabinet would be completed once blocs submit candidate names to the Prime Minister, allowing Parliament to cast the final vote after reviewing their CVs. MP Ahmed Al-Mousawi, for his part, asserted the state's critical need for an effective, complete government, highlighting that persistent ministerial shortages impede optimal performance. He noted Parliament's repeated calls for submitting candidate names to resolve vacant ministries, enabling the government to complete its approved program. Al-Mousawi underscored the necessity of a permanent minister for each portfolio, especially given the country's current challenges and the demand for immediate decisions and clear accountability in governmental affairs. MP Qaisar Al-Jourani characterized the cabinet's completion as a "political, constitutional, and national entitlement," telling Al-Sabah that the Iraqi public has awaited an end to the vacancy for over 118 days, with the government still incomplete. He clarified that political forces recognize cabinet completion as a genuine national demand, affirming ongoing political understandings. Al-Jourani also projected the resolution of vacant portfolios within the next fifteen days, pointing out that the approaching 2027 budget preparation sets a practical deadline for political forces to nominate ministers, as continued acting management could negatively impact planning and spending priorities.