(MENAFN) Iraq on Tuesday launched voting for its parliamentary elections, which will determine the country’s political landscape for the next four years.

Around 21 million eligible voters are set to choose members of the 329-seat parliament, which is responsible for electing the president and granting confidence to the government. Polls are scheduled to close at 6 p.m. local time (1500 GMT) with no extensions, and results are expected to be announced within 24 hours, subject to confirmation after any appeals are reviewed.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani described the elections as taking place "in a safe and stable atmosphere," while expressing appreciation for the role of security forces.

"The elections confirm the principle of peaceful transfer of power, and the government has paid great attention to that,” Sudani said at a press conference after casting his ballot in Baghdad.

He added that the elections are occurring on the constitutionally mandated date and with international observers present “to present a clear picture of the electoral process.”

Iraq’s last legislative elections were held on Oct. 10, 2021, following mass protests that led to the resignation of former Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi. Mustafa Al-Kadhimi succeeded him and oversaw those elections. The current parliament, dominated by Shia parties and blocs, began its term on Jan. 9, 2022, and is set to conclude on Jan. 8, 2026. Under Iraqi law, legislative elections must take place at least 45 days before the end of a parliament’s term.

Traditionally, Iraq’s three branches of government are distributed along sectarian lines: the presidency is reserved for Kurds, the prime ministry for Shias, and the parliamentary speakership for Sunnis, ensuring representation across the country’s diverse population.

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