BAGHDAD, April 24 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi President Nizar Amedi on Friday called on the Coordination Framework (CF), an umbrella alliance of Shiite parties and the largest parliamentary bloc, to adhere to constitutional timelines in nominating a prime minister-designate.
In a statement posted on his official account on the social media platform X, Amedi said that this is a constitutional obligation that cannot be delayed and a national responsibility incumbent upon everyone.
Expediting the process will strengthen political stability, ensure the proper functioning of institutions, and respond to citizens' aspirations for a government capable of fulfilling its duties and serving their interests, especially in light of the sensitive circumstances that necessitate prioritizing the country's higher interests, he added.
The president's remarks came as the alliance faces a critical constitutional deadline expiring on Sunday to officially present its candidate for the country's top executive post.
The CF announced on Wednesday that it would postpone its meeting to nominate a prime minister-designate until Friday to allow more time for dialogue among its members.
On April 11, Iraq's parliament elected former Environment Minister Nizar Amedi as president. Under the constitution, the president has 15 days to nominate a prime minister-designate from the largest parliamentary bloc. The nominee then has 30 days to form a government and seek a confidence vote.
In January, the CF nominated former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki for the post. The move drew criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who warned Washington would "no longer help Iraq" if al-Maliki returned to power. Al-Maliki dismissed the remarks as "blatant U.S. interference" and a violation of Iraqi sovereignty.
Under Iraq's post-2003 power-sharing system, the presidency is held by a Kurd, the parliamentary speaker by a Sunni Muslim, and the prime minister by a Shiite Muslim. ■
