Baghdad: Today’s newspapers focus on Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s directive to adopt the unified national identity card in the upcoming elections and to complete the cabinet formation. According to National Iraqi News Agency, the newspaper Al-Sabah, published by the Iraqi Media Network, reported that Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi directed the adoption of the unified national identity card in the upcoming elections, revealing that this measure would facilitate voting procedures for citizens and enhance the accuracy of electoral data.
The newspaper stated that this directive came during al-Zaidi’s chairmanship of a joint meeting on Tuesday between the Ministry of Interior and the Independent High Electoral Commission. The meeting was attended by various high-profile officials, including the Director of the Office of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and the Director General of Civil Status, Passports, and Residency. Al-Zaidi emphasized the importance of providing necessary resources to ensure citizens can exercise their right to vote easily and transparently. He directed the Ministry of Interior to provide all necessary data to facilitate the Commission’s work and complete the requirements for adopting the unified card.
The newspaper also reported that al-Zaidi commended the Commission’s performance in previous parliamentary elections, calling for continued dedication and early preparations for the upcoming elections. Discussions during the meeting included mechanisms for technical and administrative requirements to adopt the unified card and coordination between the Ministry of Interior and the Commission.
Regarding cabinet formation, the newspaper reported that parliamentary blocs are nearing finalizing understandings for distributing the nine remaining ministries. MP Diaa al-Zidi highlighted a serious governmental determination to complete the cabinet structure according to a well-defined vision, with intensive dialogues nearing a final agreement to present candidates to Parliament for a confidence vote.
Dr. Salah al-Dulaimi from the Azm Alliance indicated ongoing communications to ensure the alliance achieves its electoral entitlement. Al-Dulaimi expressed hope for a swift resolution of candidate issues, stressing the importance of expediting government formation to address service, economic, and security challenges.
Political analyst Ali al-Mutairi noted the changing regional landscape’s demands for a flexible administrative approach, with the Prime Minister’s office showing a genuine desire to develop the ministerial approach beyond traditional frameworks.
The newspaper Al-Zawraa reported that political forces emphasized supporting government efforts in combating corruption and addressing economic challenges. The Services Alliance and Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament discussed strengthening the legislative institution’s role and enhancing parliamentary performance.
Separately, Sheikh Humam Hamoudi and a delegation from the Kurdistan Democratic Party discussed challenges and the role of national forces in fostering dialogue. Sheikh Hamoudi highlighted Kurdistan as a key partner in building a new system, expressing commitment to dialogue within the legal framework.
In other developments, the newspaper Al-Zaman reported on the 17th Agricultural Week Exhibition at the Baghdad International Fairgrounds, with participation from 14 countries. The event aims to revitalize the economy and stimulate investment, showcasing Karbala’s agricultural experience and supporting national industry.
Earlier, the Minister of Trade, Mustafa Nizar al-Ani, emphasized the importance of high standards in organizing the exhibition, contributing to Iraq’s presence in international economic and trade forums.