Iraqis Vote for New Parliament amid Tight Security

Iraq's airspace and land border crossings were shut down on Sunday as voters went to the polls to elect a parliament that many hope will bring much-needed reforms to the country after decades of conflict and mismanagement.

The election was originally set for next year, but it was moved up due to a popular movement in Baghdad and the southern regions in late 2019.

Thousands of people flocked to the streets to protest widespread corruption, inadequate services, and rising unemployment. Security forces responded with deadly force, using live bullets and tear gas. In just a few months, almost 600 people were killed and others more injured.

Despite the fact that the authorities caved in and called early elections, the high death toll and harsh repression caused many young activists and demonstrators who took part in the protests to advocate for a boycott of the elections afterwards.

A series of kidnappings and targeted assassinations that resulted in the deaths of over 35 persons has further deterred many people from participating. The parliamentary elections, which will be the sixth since the fall of Saddam Hussein following the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, will feature 3,449 candidates running for 329 seats.

A series of kidnappings and targeted assassinations that resulted in the deaths of over 35 persons has further deterred many people from participating. The parliamentary elections, which will be the sixth since the fall of Saddam Hussein following the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, will feature 3,449 candidates running for 329 seats.

Before entering the voting booth, voters were patted down and searched. Despite considerable apathy and cynicism, Iraq's President Barham Salih and Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi urged Iraqis to vote.

“Get out and vote, and change your reality for the sake of Iraq and your future,” said al-Kadhimi, repeating it three times after he cast his ballot at a school in Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone, home to foreign embassies and government offices.

“To those who hesitate, put your trust in God and go and choose those you deem appropriate,” he added, reflecting concerns over a low turnout. “This is our opportunity for reform.” The 2018 elections saw just 44% of eligible voters cast their ballots, a record low. The results were widely contested. There are concerns of a similar or even lower turnout this time.