Rashid’s office said the president called on all Iraqis to head to the polls in large numbers, calling the high turnout “an important step toward strengthening democracy and consolidating security and stability.”
The president made the remarks during a visit to the headquarters of the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) in Baghdad to review final preparations for the vote, Roudeau said. The meeting was attended by Mohamed Al Hassan, Representative of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI).
Voter turnout has been steadily declining since the first post-Baathist elections in 2005, with only 42% of voters voting in 2021.
Campaigning ended on Saturday morning, the IHEC warned that violations could result in fines and disqualification, and the country went into election silence.
IHEC says more than 21 million Iraqis have updated their biometric cards to vote. A total of 31 alliances, 38 political parties and 23 independent candidates are contesting 329 seats, including nine seats reserved for minorities.
A special vote is scheduled for November 9th, followed by a general election on November 11th. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has directed security forces to ensure a smooth and accessible voting process across the country.
MNA