Baghdad – Baghdad’s political scene turned tense after a disputed vote in the Governorate Council. However, the State of Law Coalition has officially reaffirmed its alliance with the Sunni-led Taqaddum bloc.
On July 6, the State of Law Coalition, led by former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, released a strong statement. The coalition emphasized its dedication to all prior agreements within the Baghdad Governorate Council.
It stressed that maintaining productive relationships with all blocs is crucial. This approach, the statement said, serves the public interest and benefits citizens directly.
The coalition further noted that any contradictory remarks do not reflect its official stance. This was likely a response to internal friction sparked a day earlier.
On July 5, the head of the State of Law bloc in Baghdad, Ali al-Hafidh al-Azirjawi, declared the alliance with Taqaddum suspended. He accused Taqaddum of breaking political agreements during a key council session.
He cited their unilateral actions, claiming they ignored agreed terms from the Document of Alliance for Decision and Reconstruction. Azirjawi insisted that any future cooperation must include real guarantees for consultation and shared decisions.
The rift emerged after a controversial vote on July 3. Council members tried to dismiss Governor Abdulmutalib Alawi in the absence of the council’s president and deputy. They voted to replace him with Hayder Muhan.
However, on July 5, the Governorate declared that session invalid. In a reversal, it announced Alawi would remain governor after a majority vote.
Alawi had been elected on February 5, 2024, backed by the State of Law Coalition. Despite holding only nine out of 52 seats, the bloc remains a powerful force in Baghdad politics.
This reaffirmation of alliance signals an attempt to ease internal divisions. It also reflects the coalition’s desire to maintain unity in a politically fragmented landscape.
The State of Law Coalition now seeks to stabilize Baghdad’s governance by restoring trust among allied political forces.
