Iraq's Electoral Commission Reports Over 140,000 Voters Update Data Ahead of 2025 Elections
The Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) in Iraq announced on Thursday that more than 140,000 citizens have successfully updated their voter registration details since the launch of the nationwide campaign last month. The figure includes thousands of first-time voters born in 2007, who will be eligible to cast their ballots in the upcoming legislative elections.
Voter Registration and Biometric Card Distribution
According to IHEC spokesperson Jumana al-Ghalay, a total of 140,370 voters have updated their records as of April 9, with 7,122 being newly eligible voters born in 2007. Additionally, the commission has distributed nearly 18 million biometric voting cards to ensure a secure and verifiable electoral process.
Al-Ghalay emphasized that IHEC is taking extra measures to guarantee voting rights for citizens with unreadable fingerprints. "We are using biometric photos as an alternative verification method, along with specialized cameras at polling stations, to prevent any voter disenfranchisement," she stated.
2025 Legislative Elections Scheduled for November
The announcement comes just a day after the Iraqi Council of Ministers officially set November 11, 2025, as the date for the next parliamentary elections. The polls will determine the composition of Iraq’s next government amid ongoing political and economic challenges.
Millions Eligible to Vote, Including First-Time Participants
IHEC estimates that around 28 million Iraqis are eligible to participate in the elections, including approximately one million young voters born in 2007, who will be voting for the first time. The commission continues to encourage citizens to verify and update their registration details ahead of the deadline to ensure smooth participation.
As preparations intensify, authorities aim to enhance transparency and public trust in the electoral process, particularly after past controversies over voter fraud and low turnout. The widespread distribution of biometric cards and the adoption of advanced verification methods are seen as critical steps toward a fair and credible election.
