Iraq wraps up security preparations in advance of polls

By Ali Jawad

BAGHDAD (AA) - Preparations for securing Iraq’s May 12 parliamentary polls wrapped up Thursday, according to the Interior Ministry.

“The security plan for the elections… has been finalized,” ministry spokesman Saad Maan told reporters at a press conference in Baghdad.

“The plan was drawn up by a security committee comprised of representatives of all the Iraqi security agencies in coordination with the electoral commission,” he said.

“The air force will be waiting on standby to provide security as well,” he said.

On May 12, a total of 7,376 candidates -- representing 320 parties, coalitions and lists -- will compete for membership in Iraq’s 328-seat parliament.

According to Iraq’s constitution, the assembly will then be responsible for electing the country's next president and prime minister.

Twenty-four million people out of Iraq’s total population of 37 million will be eligible to cast ballots.