BAGHDAD: Iraqis voted Monday in the first provincial council elections held in a decade, which were likely to strengthen the dominance of specific groups.
The election comes at a time of widespread political apathy and disillusionment in the country of 43 million that is still recovering from years of war and plagued by corruption.
Turnout at noon had reached just 17%, said election commission official Omar Ahmed, who urged people to come out and contribute to the success of the electoral process, AFP reported.
Vote a Major Test for PM Sudani
The vote is seen as a major test for Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani — who rose to power just over a year ago supported by some parties — ahead of general polls due in 2025.
The provincial councils choose provincial governors and manage budgets for transport, health, and education.
