Iraqi Court Dismisses Parliament Speaker Over Legal Breaches
Significant shift in Iraqi political landscape
The Iraqi Federal Supreme Court has ordered the termination of Parliament Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi and fellow Sunni lawmaker Laith al-Dulaimi, citing legal violations and an ongoing feud. This decision came after al-Dulaimi accused al-Halbousi of forging his signature on a resignation letter, leading to multiple court sessions and mutual allegations.
The court’s ruling, declared final and binding, effectively dismisses both members from their parliamentary roles. Al-Halbousi expressed surprise and concern over the decision, fearing it could destabilize the country. In response, his party, Taqaddum, which he leads, has chosen to withdraw its ministers from the government and boycott parliamentary sessions.
According to Iraq’s power-sharing system post-2003, the Parliament Speaker’s position is traditionally reserved for Sunnis. Al-Halbousi was re-elected as speaker in January 2022, after first assuming the role in September 2018. The parliament is now expected to elect a successor in line with its internal regulations and political balance.
