Baghdad: The House of Representatives is holding a second round of voting to elect the Speaker of Parliament this evening, Thursday. The move follows an inconclusive first round where no candidate secured the required majority.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the initial round of voting saw Mahmoud Al-Mashhadani emerge as the frontrunner with 153 votes. Salem Al-Issawi received 95 votes, while Amer Abdul-Jabbar garnered 9 votes. Additionally, there were 14 invalid papers, further complicating the election process and necessitating a second round to determine the new Speaker.

As the voting continues, the representatives are tasked with reaching a consensus to fill the crucial position of Speaker of Parliament. The outcome of this election is pivotal for the legislative agenda and political stability in the country.