Iraq

Iraqi PM Nouri Maliki’s Bloc Leads Provincial Elections

A1053799

The coalition led by Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri Maliki came first in seven of 12 provinces, including Baghdad, in elections held last month.

Its main rival, the Iraqiya bloc, suffered poor results, BBC reported.

Observers say the results give an indication of political support ahead of next year’s parliamentary elections.

It was the first local council vote held since the departure of US troops in late 2011.

Saturday’s results showed Maliki’s State of Law coalition won crucial votes in Baghdad and the oil-rich Basra province.

It also led the polls in Karbala, Babil, Diwaniyah, Dhi Qar and Muthanna, and tied for first in Wasit province with its rival, the Supreme Iraqi Islamic Council.

Meanwhile the Iraqiya bloc, led by Ayad Allawi, picked up no more than three seats in any of the provinces, according to Iraq’s Independent High Electoral Commission.

Almost 14 million Iraqis were eligible to vote for more than 8,000 candidates competing for 378 seats in provincial councils on 20 April.

Election officials put the turnout at around 50%.

Back to top button