Iraq Parliament Prepares for Budget Vote Amid Political Maneuvering

Iraq’s parliament is set to vote on the federal budget tables soon, with no new public sector appointments or wage increases anticipated. Finance Minister Taif Sami is under pressure regarding progress, while discussions on the reintroduction of the PMF law are planned. Al-Hilali reassured that parliament cannot dissolve itself and the current term ends on January 10, 2026.

The Iraqi Parliament is preparing to vote on the federal budget tables shortly after they are submitted by the government. Lawmaker Ibtisam Al-Hilali announced that the government is in the process of finalizing the budget, aiming for a swift parliamentary vote to minimize disruption to ministries. She noted that Iraq has established a three-year budget for effective financial planning, though annual voting on the tables will be required due to current challenges.

Finance Minister Taif Sami is currently facing pressure regarding the budget’s delay. Al-Hilali indicated that the minister has assured that the tables have been dispatched to the Prime Minister for further action. Should there be a delay in approval, government spending would persist at a monthly rate of one-twelfth of the preceding budget.

Amid concerns about political manipulation ahead of elections, Al-Hilali clarified that the current budget does not entail new government appointments, contracts, or wage increases. She pointed out that 150,000 contract positions for various provinces have already been established, cautioning against misleading election-related promises.

In regard to the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) Service and Retirement law, Al-Hilali mentioned it may be reintroduced to the parliamentary agenda soon, with discussions scheduled for the next session, expected to take place next week. The law was previously withdrawn, but its reintroduction aims to address legislative priorities.

Al-Hilali dismissed calls for parliament’s dissolution amid delays in scheduling sessions. She remarked that the current parliamentary term will conclude on January 10, 2026. Reports indicate ongoing negotiations by the Shiite Coordination Framework concerning amendments to the PMF law, involving discussions with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, who previously withdrew the law to alleviate political tensions.

The Iraqi Parliament is poised to expedite the authorization of the federal budget tables, reinforcing the administration’s three-year budgeting strategy. Despite pressures concerning the budget’s timing, it is critical that legislators prioritize effective governance without succumbing to political opportunism. The discussions around the PMF law underscore the ongoing negotiation dynamics within Iraqi politics. As the parliamentary term continues, clarity on these legislative matters is vital for the nation’s financial stability and political coherence.

Original Source: shafaq.com