Amira Al-Jaber Becomes First Official Candidate for Iraqi Presidency

Amira Al-Jaber, an Iraqi politician and feminist activist, has officially submitted her candidacy for the presidency of Iraq, becoming the first individual to do so since the application period opened.

Al-Jaber confirmed that her application was submitted through the official channels of the Iraqi Parliament after meeting all necessary constitutional and legal requirements.

A Message to Parliament: The Presidency Is Not a Formal Position

In statements reported by local media, Al-Jaber addressed Parliament members, urging them to elect a president who "recognizes the value and sovereignty of Iraq" and is capable of revitalizing the presidential role, which she believes has diminished significantly in recent years.

She emphasized the need for a leader with independence and vision, free from narrow calculations.

Announcement via Digital Platforms

Al-Jaber opted for a modern approach to announce her candidacy, sharing the official application message she sent to Parliament on her social media, which sparked significant engagement within political and social circles.

Political Background and Feminist Activity

Professionally, Amira Al-Jaber serves on the Women's Advisory Council in Baghdad and has been dedicated to women's empowerment and political participation for years, adding a symbolic dimension to her candidacy in a country that has yet to experience a female presidency.

Complex Political Context

This development follows the announcement by Parliament Speaker Mohammed Al-Halbousi, who opened the application period for the presidency amid a politically sensitive environment characterized by delicate balances.

Since 2003, Iraq has operated under a political distribution system where Shiites lead the government, Kurds hold the presidency, and Sunnis manage Parliament, with other high offices shared among various groups.

Constitutional Election of the President

The Iraqi Constitution, in Articles 68 and 70, stipulates that the President is elected by a two-thirds majority of Parliament members; if this is not achievable, a simple majority will decide the position, making political consensus crucial in the upcoming phase.

A Step That Opens Discussion

Al-Jaber's candidacy represents not only a political announcement but also initiates a broader conversation about women's roles, the nature of the presidency, and the potential to break traditional patterns within the Iraqi political system as the public awaits the characteristics of the next phase.