Iraqi Parliament Sets May 14 Vote on Ali al-Zaidi Cabinet

13-05-2026 10:56

Peregraf — Iraq's Council of Representatives Presidency has officially set Thursday, May 14, as the date for a parliamentary session to vote on the cabinet of Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi.

The vote comes after weeks of negotiations and political deadlock within Iraq's ruling Coordination Framework (CF) coalition.

Disputes Over Key Ministries Continue

Despite progress toward government formation, political disagreements reportedly remain over several sovereign ministries, particularly the Interior, Oil, and Foreign Affairs portfolios.

Negotiations among political factions have continued in recent days in an effort to finalize the cabinet lineup ahead of the parliamentary vote.

Ministerial Program Submitted

On Thursday, May 7, al-Zaidi submitted his ministerial program to Iraqi Council of Representatives Speaker Haibat al-Halbousi.

The program outlines the proposed government's priorities for the coming years, focusing on security, economic reforms, energy, governance, and regional relations.

Government Formation Nears Final Stage

Al-Zaidi was nominated following prolonged internal divisions within the Coordination Framework over the premiership. On April 27, 2026, Iraqi President Nizar Amedi officially tasked al-Zaidi with forming a government after the CF nominated him as a consensus candidate to succeed outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani.

Under the Iraqi Constitution, the prime minister-designate is required to present a cabinet and government program to parliament for a vote of confidence within 30 days of designation.

The upcoming session is expected to be a key test of political consensus among Iraq's major factions.