Coordination Framework calls on Kurdish parties to agree on presidential candidate

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - The Coordination Framework on Monday called on Kurdish parties to agree on a single candidate for the post of Iraq’s presidency, stressing the importance of stabilizing the political process and forming a “harmonious” government.

The Coordination Framework, pro-Iran Shiite parliamentary faction, discussed the latest developments in Iraq’s political scene during its regular meeting, which was attended by the head of the political parties within the faction.

“Leaders of the [Coordination] Framework called on the Kurdish forces to unify their efforts and work on settling a candidate for the presidency of the [Iraqi] republic,” read a statement from the Shiite faction following the meeting.

According to a long-standing customary agreement, the presidency lies with the Kurds and the position has been held by the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) since 2005. 

Up to last month, the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) held a strong position in challenging the PUK for the position, but a sudden withdrawal by the parliament’s largest Shiite bloc led by cleric Muqtada al-Sadr on June 12, rendered the KDP’s claim to the presidency difficult without the backing of their strong Shiite ally.

The statement from the Framework added that the criteria, mechanisms, and deadlines for selecting the next president and the prime minister of Iraq were also discussed during the meeting.

Iraq continues to be shrouded in political instability with the country yet to form its next government almost nine months following the elections.