Baghdad: The Supreme Judicial Council affirmed today that it does not endorse or support any individual for the position of the next Prime Minister, stressing the need to keep the judiciary institution and its members away from political deliberations related to forming the legislative and executive branches.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the council issued a statement following its fifteenth session, which was presided over by the President of the Federal Court of Cassation, Judge Faiq Zaidan. The session included a memorial for retired judge Younis Shallaka Mez'al, who recently passed away, as well as the approval of promotions for several judges and members of the Public Prosecution.

The statement highlighted that Zaidan reviewed the judiciary's role in ensuring elections were conducted on their constitutional date. He praised the distinguished performance of Deputy Presidents of the Court of Cassation, Judge Kazem Abbas and Judge Hassan Fuad, along with their colleagues, in reviewing appeals related to decisions made by the Accountability and Justice Commission and the Independent High Electoral Commission. Their efforts were noted as crucial for guaranteeing the proper application of the law.

The council reiterated its call for political parties and forces to adhere to the constitutional timelines for forming both the legislative and executive authorities.

It concluded by emphasizing its rejection of involving the judiciary, either as an institution or through individuals, in discussions concerning the selection of the heads of the legislative and executive branches, particularly the next Prime Minister. The council confirmed that it has not adopted, supported, or expressed an opinion regarding any judicial, executive, or political figure for this position, emphasizing that the matter is strictly a political issue in which the judiciary has no role.