In preparation for the upcoming provincial elections in Iraq, the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) has decided to extend the deadline for political coalitions to register. IHEC spokesperson Jumana al-Ghalai announced that the initial deadline, which expired at midnight, has been pushed back until August 6, providing parties with additional time to complete their registration.

The provincial councils, powerful bodies established by the 2005 constitution after the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime, play a significant role in the country's governance. They are responsible for critical decisions, including the allocation of budgets for key sectors such as education, health, and transport.

Scheduled for December 18, the provincial elections come in response to anti-government protests that occurred four years ago, leading to the dissolution of the councils. These elections will be held across Iraq, except in the Kurdistan Region.

One notable change in the upcoming elections is the reintroduction of the Sainte-Laguë voting method, a move perceived as controversial. This method will revert to the single-constituency per province system, departing from the multiple-constituency system adopted for the 2021 parliamentary elections.

The previous provincial councils faced allegations of corruption, which fueled the widespread 2019 demonstrations across the country. In response to the protests, parliament dissolved the system, leading to a delay in the elections. The last provincial council elections took place in 2013, with supporters of then-prime minister Nouri al-Maliki emerging victorious. Subsequent elections, initially scheduled for 2018, were postponed.

The registration process for the provincial elections has witnessed significant interest from political parties and alliances. As of early July, the electoral body received registrations from 77 political parties and 41 alliances that are eager to participate in the upcoming elections.

Given the concerns surrounding corruption, Iraq's integrity commission has made a request to the IHEC. The integrity commission is seeking the names of the registered political parties and alliances to conduct investigations into their wealth and properties.

As the deadline extension allows for more participants to enter the electoral race, Iraqi citizens are hopeful that the forthcoming provincial elections will lead to the establishment of accountable and transparent governing bodies that genuinely represent their interests and contribute to the country's progress.