Iraqi president urges swift nomination of premier candidate ahead of constitutional deadline

Iraqi President Nizar Amidi on Friday called for the swift nomination of a prime ministerial candidate by the Coordination Framework alliance, stressing that the move is a “constitutional entitlement that cannot be delayed.”

The call comes two days before the constitutional deadline for the president to assign the nominee of the largest parliamentary bloc to form a government, ahead of a scheduled meeting of the Coordination Framework later Friday to decide on its candidate.

In a post on the US social media company X, Amidi emphasized the need to adhere to constitutional timelines in submitting the nominee of the largest bloc.

He described the process as a “national responsibility,” saying that accelerating it “would enhance political stability and ensure the proper functioning of state institutions.”

Amidi added that “completing this step would meet public expectations for a government capable of fulfilling its duties and serving citizens’ interests, particularly amid sensitive circumstances requiring prioritization of national interests.”

The Coordination Framework had postponed a meeting initially scheduled for Wednesday to Friday, reflecting ongoing internal consultations within the alliance.

The meeting comes after parliament elected Amidi as president on April 11.

According to Article 76 (A) of Iraq’s constitution, the president must assign the candidate of the largest parliamentary bloc to form a government within 15 days of his election.

The Coordination Framework is considered the largest bloc in parliament, holding around 130 to 140 seats out of 329, based on recent election results.

The alliance, the most prominent Shiite political coalition in Iraq, plays a central role in selecting the prime minister and forming the government.

On Jan. 24, it announced the nomination of Nouri al-Maliki for the premiership.

However, the nomination has faced opposition from US President Donald Trump, who has urged Iraq not to appoint him as prime minister.

*Writing by Rania Abushamala in Istanbul.