Iraq’s election credibility crisis deepens as the Nasr (Victory) bloc, led by former Prime Minister Haidar Al-Abadi, announced its withdrawal from the upcoming parliamentary elections. This marks the second Shiite political bloc to exit the race, raising broader concerns about Iraq’s democratic path.
Al-Abadi, who served as prime minister from 2014 to 2018, cited increasing levels of “political money” and vote-buying as core reasons behind the decision. He and his bloc claim that these practices threaten the fairness of the elections and erode public trust in the process.
The announcement follows similar moves by other Shiite-led coalitions that have raised alarms about electoral transparency and governance standards. Together, these withdrawals point to a deepening political divide and a growing lack of faith in electoral institutions.
Observers note that Iraq’s election credibility crisis may deter voter participation and damage confidence in elected bodies. Critics warn that unchecked spending and influence peddling could undermine democracy and create further instability.
The Nasr bloc’s withdrawal could also affect alliances and power dynamics among Iraq’s leading Shiite, Sunni, and Kurdish factions. Without a unified electoral strategy, coalition-building in the next parliament may become more difficult and fragmented.
Al-Abadi’s decision reflects broader concerns across Iraq’s political spectrum. Many leaders argue that Iraq needs serious reform in election financing, party accountability, and oversight mechanisms. Without these changes, political competition risks becoming increasingly unfair.
Iraq’s Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) has not issued a direct response to the Nasr bloc’s exit. However, officials continue to promote the elections as inclusive and legitimate, despite recent withdrawals.
Some civil society groups have also echoed calls for cleaner elections and stronger regulation of campaign funding. They urge voters to remain engaged while demanding greater transparency from all political actors.
As election day approaches, Iraq’s election credibility crisis could shape public discourse and participation levels. With two prominent blocs now out of the race, the path forward remains uncertain.