Baghdad: The Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) has clarified the procedures and schedule related to disqualifying candidates for the upcoming 2025 Iraqi Council of Representatives elections.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the commission’s assistant spokesperson, Nibras Abu Souda, emphasized that the disqualification process will persist even after voting concludes. This is due to exclusions stemming from verification authorities and candidate behavior during the election campaign, including violations leading to disqualification or electoral crimes. The commission is prepared to address these issues by disqualifying candidates and referring cases to the judiciary.

Abu Souda revealed that over 800 candidates have already been disqualified, with the number potentially changing as the verification process continues. She highlighted that candidates can be disqualified even after their candidacy is initially approved if new information arises.

The commission reiterated that the disqualification file will remain active beyond the voting period, ensuring that disqualified candidates’ votes are nullified. Abu Souda noted that should new developments or previously unavailable information about a candidate surface, the commission will handle it in accordance with the law, disregarding any prior approvals.