Iraq’s Parliament is poised to vote on the federal budget shortly, with no new public sector appointments or wage increases included. The PMF law may return to the agenda next week. Calls for parliamentary dissolution have been dismissed, emphasizing the continuation of legislative functions through the current term until January 2026.
The Iraqi Parliament is set to vote on the federal budget tables shortly after they are submitted by the government. Lawmaker Ibtisam Al-Hilali noted that there would be no new public sector appointments or wage increases as part of this budget process. She emphasized the urgency of voting on the budget to avoid disruptions in government ministries and noted that Iraq operates with a three-year financial planning model.
Finance Minister Taif Sami has been under pressure regarding the delay in budget tables, which he confirmed have been forwarded to the Prime Minister. If approval is postponed, government expenditures will be limited to 1/12 of the previous budget. Al-Hilali pointed out that the current budget does not provide for any new contracts or salary hikes, as 150,000 contract positions have already been addressed.
Regarding the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) Service and Retirement law, Al-Hilali indicated that it may return to the parliamentary agenda for discussion next week. This follows its withdrawal from consideration last week, as discussions are ongoing concerning amendments led by the Shiite Coordination Framework with PM Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani.
Despite a backdrop of calls for parliamentary dissolution due to session delays, Al-Hilali stated that such a dissolution is implausible, with the current parliamentary term concluding on January 10, 2026. Meanwhile, concerns remain about the status of the budget tables, as there was no official confirmation regarding their transfer from the Ministry of Finance to the Council of Ministers, according to Parliamentary Finance Committee member Hussain Mouanes.
In summary, the Iraqi Parliament is preparing to vote on the federal budget tables, with an emphasis on maintaining financial stability without new public sector appointments or wage increases. The return of the PMF law to the agenda indicates ongoing legislative activity, despite challenges and pressures within the political landscape. The assurance from lawmakers about the continuity of the parliamentary term further reflects the resolve to address these financial and legislative priorities.
Original Source: shafaq.com
