Iraq Names Businessman Ali Al-Zaidi as Prime Minister Designate

Iraq Appoints New Prime Minister Amid Months-Long Political Deadlock

Iraq’s Coordination Framework has named Ali al-Zaidi as the compromise candidate for prime minister, following a months-long search for a candidate acceptable to both local factions and foreign powers. The appointment was announced after a meeting in Baghdad, where the bloc’s leaders unanimously approved al-Zaidi as their nominee.

President Nizar Amedi subsequently appointed al-Zaidi as prime minister-designate, tasking him with forming a government. This move aims to avoid a constitutional crisis and bring stability to the country.

Al-Zaidi, 40, is a businessman with no prior experience in politics or government administration. He holds degrees in law and finance from reputable institutions and serves on the board of several prominent companies, including the National Holding Company.

The appointment comes after former President Nouri al-Maliki was forced to withdraw from the race due to opposition from US President Donald Trump. Outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani failed to secure a second term.

Al-Zaidi’s background has been scrutinized by financial watchdogs, who have noted that one of his previous companies faced sanctions from the Central Bank of Iraq.

The Coordination Framework’s decision to appoint al-Zaidi as prime minister was likely influenced by his lack of political history, which makes him a more palatable choice domestically and internationally. The bloc is now expected to engage with Washington and other foreign powers in an effort to secure support for its new government.

Source: Al Jazeera