The outgoing Iraqi Prime Minister, Adel Abdul Mahdi, has recently made several public appearances following the coronavirus outbreak in Iraq.
Days after his visit to Basra Governorate and southern areas bordering Iran, Abdul Mahdi chaired on Tuesday a meeting to discuss the virus.
Abdul Mahdi announced earlier this month his “voluntary absence” from the political scene after delegating one of his deputies to carry out his caretaking tasks. But legal experts were surprised by the terminology, which isn't mentioned in the constitution or Iraqi law.
Meanwhile, his regular appearances, which come amid diminishing chances to find a figure to replace him, has been seen as a victory for his supporters.
The coronavirus, which is spreading fast across Iraq despite the precautionary measures taken by the authorities, has been seen as a major factor behind Abdul Mahdi’s stay in office.
Political blocs haven’t been able to agree on a candidate. The constitutional deadline, which ends on Monday, allows President Barham Salih to assign the person he deems appropriate for the position to avoid a new constitutional vacuum.
Iraqi former MP Haidar al-Mulla told Asharq Al-Awsat that chances to name a new PM are diminishing.
“Recent meetings held by the political blocs haven’t resulted in an agreement on any candidate, which reveals the depth of the crisis experienced by the political parties representing Shiites,” he noted.
In order for Iraq not avoid a constitutional breach, not a constitutional vacuum, it is necessary to agree on the name of a figure by Monday, Mulla stressed, saying that otherwise, Salih will have to act by choosing a premier or addressing the people to explain the situation.
