Special Representative for Iraq and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert has warned that “the critical window of opportunity is closing fast” in the country due to the political tension and government paralysis.
She was briefing UN Security Council ambassadors after the failure of Iraqi Prime Minister-designate Mohammed Tawfiq Allawi to form a government, calling on political leaders and communities “to step up to the plate: placing the country’s interest above all else, building domestic strength.”
“Constitutionally, the President now has another 15 days to nominate a new Prime Minister-designate, whose government and program would again be subject to parliamentary endorsement”, Hennis-Plasschaert said. “While political consultations are ongoing, the question remains whether political parties will find a new consensus-candidate within these time limits”.
“Yet times of crisis also present opportunities. And I sincerely hope that Iraqi political leaders will recognize in this moment, the crossroads where they either stand idle, or where they place themselves in the service of their countrymen and women. But I have to say: the critical window of opportunity is closing fast”.
Hennis-Plasschaert began her briefing by reflecting the hopes of Iraqis who continue to pay “an unimaginable price” for their voices to be heard, noting that protesters have been injured and killed, simply for calling for justice.
These latest developments will prolong uncertainty and create “significant challenges”, further eroding public trust, she told ambassadors.
Acting US deputy ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet called on Iraq's next leaders to urgently deliver reforms that will combat corruption and promote free elections. "We also call on them to protect demonstrators and hold their killers to account," she said.
Permanent Representative of Iraq to the United Nations Mohammad Hussein Bahr Aluloom said the voices of Iraqi protesters are being heard.
Iraqi President Barham Salih assigned Allawi to form a new government then the latter withdrew his candidacy for the post, he added, confirming that the president will assign a new candidate according to the constitutional deadlines and regulations.
