Some Iraqi citizens are symbolically applying for the presidency to challenge the country’s long-standing ethno-sectarian power-sharing system (muhasasa), which allocates top political posts based on sect and party affiliation rather than merit. Critics argue this system fuels corruption, inefficiency, and division.
One such candidate, Ahmed Tawfiq, a retired engineer and economist, says his candidacy aims to show Iraqis and the world that capable, independent individuals exist outside the political elite. While the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) has nominated Nizar Amedi as its official candidate, Tawfiq and others are using their applications as a form of protest against entrenched political agreements they believe treat the country as spoils to be divided.

Abba Father, we pray that Iraq may be led by leaders who value justice, integrity, and service over power and division. Raise up men and women who seek the good of all people. Amen (The Holy Bible, Amos 5:24).

Lord, we ask You to expose corruption and remove systems that thrive on greed and injustice. Heal the nation from practices that harm the innocent and weaken unity. Amen (The Holy Bible, Proverbs 11:1).

News Source: MENA News

Image Source: Canva