IHEC Disqualifies 46 Candidates Ahead of November Parliamentary Elections

PUKMEDIA

IHEC's logo, voting sheet, and a voter's hand..

Iraq’s Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) has announced the disqualification of 46 candidates from standing in the upcoming sixth term of the Iraqi parliamentary elections, scheduled for 11 November 2025. The Commission has cited specific legal and procedural grounds for the exclusions.

Speaking to the Iraq's state media (INA), Imad Jamil, head of IHEC’s media team, stated: “The vetting process for candidates on electoral lists within political coalitions is ongoing and will continue until the end of July.” 

He confirmed that 46 candidates have thus far been disqualified, primarily due to their parties' failure to meet the necessary conditions for nomination and the candidates' non-compliance with legal requirements.

Jamil referenced the Candidate Registration System, which relates to open-list electoral systems. The article stipulates that no more than 20% of candidates on a list may hold diplomas, intermediate certificates, or equivalent qualifications. “The presence of 11 candidates holding only intermediate certificates exceeded the permitted percentage,” he noted, “and they have therefore been replaced by candidates with bachelor’s degrees.”

He further clarified the requirements for female representation, stating: “Under current regulations, women must comprise no less than 25% of the candidates on open lists. To meet this quota, three male candidates were replaced.”

The Iraqi Council of Ministers had earlier confirmed 11 November 2025 as the official election date during a cabinet meeting held on 9 April, chaired by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani.



PUKMEDIA