United Nations, Nov 24, : .Jeanine Hennis–Plasschaert is the UN’s top envoy to Iraq and has called for the formation of a government as soon as possible. “Plainly speaking, Iraq is in a precarious position.The situation is not going to improve if there are no real reforms.
She said that the contrary is what it will become,” she told the Security Council via video link Monday.
Hennis-Plasschaert is the UN Secretary General’s special representative and head for the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq.
He said that the elections last month were peaceful and well-run.
She also pointed out that the elections were hard won, as they were able to emerge from an unprecedented wave national demonstrations in 2019, which resulted in hundreds and thousands of deaths.
After the October elections, parties that were against the electoral results started demonstrations and sit ins.The violence escalated on November 5 with reports of casualties in Baghdad.An assassination attempt against Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi occurred in the early hours of November 7.
Hennis-Plasschaert stated that she has seen a lack of trust between parties, institutions and parties in recent weeks.This is in addition to the long-standing lack public trust in politicians and institutions.
“But, this is not without risk.Mistrust often leads to escalation.Our constant calls for political dialog to prevail are a reminder of this.Any outstanding electoral concerns must be addressed through established legal channels in accordance to the law.She said that it is not a good idea to use others as scapegoats for electoral grievances.
It is obvious that Iraq cannot afford to let its national interests be overlooked in the midst of post-election turmoil.The risk of political deadlock in the future is real.
However, Iraq needs a government capable of quickly and effectively addressing the long list domestic problems.She stated that this is the main responsibility of all political parties.
It is crucial that the current situation does not drag on.She said that statesmanship, leadership, sound judgment, and a broad commitment towards political dialogue with factual information are all necessary.
“Clearly, time is of the essence.As I said in August, it is time for Iraq to move beyond a prolonged political impasse and establish responsive, dynamic governance mechanisms.
The moment after the election is the right time for all political actors in Iraq to show their determination to serve all Iraqis.
She said that many Iraqis took to the streets because of a lack in political, economic, and social prospects before the elections.
“Their grievances and demands are still relevant.” She warned that simmering anger can easily escalate, as we all know.
The final election results can only be ratified by the Federal Supreme Court.This happens after the Electoral Judicial Panel has ruled on the appeals.
The panel is wrapping up its work, and the Independent High Electoral Commission is continuing to examine over 800 polling stations based upon the panel’s decisions.
After this, IHEC will send the final results to Federal Supreme Court.
Although it would be preferable to have final results ratified sooner than later, it should not be forgotten that there are no time limits in the Constitution for ratification by Federal Supreme Court, as the UN envoy pointed out.
“All unlawful attempts to delay or discredit the electoral result process, or worse to alter the electoral outcomes through intimidation or pressure, will only backfire.I urge all parties to avoid this path.
“And as we wait for the Federal Supreme Court to ratify the results, I can only emphasize that the next days and weeks will be even more important for Iraq’s immediate future.She added that the importance of a sound, inclusive government formation process cannot overstated.”
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