Iraqi PM hails participation of women in political life

Haider al-Abadi also calls for more women in country's next government

By Ibrahim Saleh

BAGHDAD (AA) - Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi on Wednesday hailed legislation that allows “broad participation” by women in the country’s political life.

Al-Abadi made the remarks in a speech delivered in Baghdad to mark International Women's Day, which will fall on Thursday.

“Current laws and legislation grant women broad powers to participate in Iraq’s political process,” al-Abadi said. “This should be taken advantage of.”

Under Iraqi law, one quarter of parliamentary and local council seats are reserved for women.

The prime minister also stressed the need for “effective participation” by women in Iraq’s next government.

Some 24 million Iraqis are registered to vote in parliamentary polls slated for May 12, according to Iraq’s official electoral commission.

Kaynak: