Disagreements Between Iraqi Political Blocs Impede Formation of New Government

The atmosphere of disagreement between the Iraqi political blocs dominated the negotiations to distribute portfolios to the allied forces to form the new government, headed by Muhammad Shiaa al-Sudani.

Shiite parties hesitated to acquire the share of Muqtada al-Sadr, the leader of the Sadrist movement, which he occupied in previous governments.

Two sources, from the Sovereignty Alliance and the Coordination Framework, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the quota map has changed due to a dispute over the ministries affiliated with the Sadrist movement after the postponement of their designation was withdrawn until an understanding with the Sadrists was reached.

Shiite parties are pushing to take over the ministries of the Sadrist movement, before they agree to name three ministries out of five, according to a source from the coordination framework.

Prime Minister-designate Muhammad Shia Al-Sudani said, in a press statement, that “the coordination framework will give the opportunity for any bloc to present its candidates to all ministries.

He added that the matter of selection is left to the Prime Minister-designate based on competence and integrity, according to electoral weights.