The power struggle within the Coordination Framework is rapidly escalating, threatening Iraq’s political unity ahead of national elections. Once united by shared interests, key factions are now openly at war over the future of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani.
The State of Law Coalition launched a direct and public attack on Al-Sudani’s leadership. Its spokesperson, Aqeel Al-Fatlawi, delivered harsh criticism during a televised appearance. He argued that Al-Sudani’s continued leadership would usher in an “arduous stage” for the country.
Al-Fatlawi listed several major failures. He pointed to economic instability, rising debt, and widespread public dissatisfaction. In addition, said contractor debts had reached over 20 trillion Iraqi dinars. He blamed the government for failing to secure water rights from Turkey. Additionally, he warned that thousands of food security contract workers may lose funding by March.
He criticized the administration’s focus on infrastructure. Building new bridges, he said, has done little to ease Baghdad’s worsening traffic. According to Al-Fatlawi, these decisions reflect poor planning and misplaced priorities.
In response, Qusai Mahbouba from Al-Sudani’s “Reconstruction and Development” coalition hit back. He accused former Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki of turning his political platform into a personal campaign against Al-Sudani.
Mahbouba highlighted Al-Maliki’s inconsistent stance. He noted that Al-Maliki became Prime Minister with only three seats. In contrast, Al-Sudani has maintained the national stability and improved internal security. Mahbouba called Al-Maliki’s behavior a “shameful double standard.”
Furthermore, Mahbouba praised Al-Sudani for leading Iraq through a volatile regional climate. He mentioned recent regional tensions, including missile strikes in cities like Doha. He said Al-Sudani’s government had remained strong while other administrations faltered.
Mahbouba concluded that Al-Sudani is not a puppet. He said the Prime Minister makes independent decisions while working closely with the Coordination Framework. He stressed that Al-Sudani will not act as an employee who blindly follows orders.
The power struggle within the Coordination Framework reveals deeper divisions than previously seen. This conflict between Al-Sudani’s camp and Al-Maliki’s bloc has widened the internal rift.
Meanwhile, whispers of renewed tensions with the Sadrist Movement add more uncertainty to the coming elections. Political observers warn that further escalation could disrupt the fragile balance of power.
As Iraq approaches another election season, the power struggle within the Coordination Framework will likely define the political narrative. Every faction is now preparing for a turbulent campaign marked by rivalry and resistance.
