Baghdad: Iraq entered an electoral silence period early Saturday, a day before voters head to the ballots for the country's parliamentary elections, while Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani urged citizens to participate widely in Sunday's polls. The blackout began at 7 am local time (0400GMT), during which political entities and parties are prohibited from promoting their campaigns or candidates until polls close.

According to Anadolu Agency, Prime Minister Sudani stated, "We will not impose a curfew on election day, and there must be a high level of smoothness in movement," while chairing a meeting of the High Security Committee. He emphasized the significance of holding the polls as scheduled, describing it as 'an important event for the state' that reaffirms Iraq's commitment to its democratic path and the peaceful transfer of power.

The premier highlighted the role of security forces in instilling confidence among citizens and called for countering 'any lies, misinformation, or attempts to cast doubt on the electoral process in the media or on social media.' On Friday evening, he urged Iraqis to vote 'freely and without coercion,' emphasizing that their participation is 'a trust, a responsibility, and the voice of the future.'

Independent High Electoral Commission spokeswoman Jumana al-Ghalai informed Anadolu on Friday that the commission is 'fully prepared to hold the special vote on Nov. 9 and the general vote on Nov. 11.' The special vote includes security personnel, army members, medical staff, and prisoners who cannot participate in the general election.

A total of 7,768 candidates, including 5,520 men and 2,248 women, are vying for 329 seats in the Council of Representatives, which elects the president and grants confidence to the government. Approximately 21 million Iraqis are eligible to vote, as reported by the commission.

The current parliament, elected on Jan. 9, 2022, serves a four-year term ending on Jan. 8, 2026. Iraqi law mandates that legislative elections occur at least 45 days before the parliamentary term concludes. Shia parties and blocs currently hold a majority in the legislature. Traditionally, Iraq's power structure allocates the presidency to the Kurds, the premiership to the Shias, and the speakership of parliament to the Sunnis.