Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani is fighting for a second term in office as elections approach on November 11. His campaign highlights better public services, balanced ties with Tehran and Washington, and keeping Iraq out of regional conflict since October 2023.
Al-Sudani’s Construction and Development Coalition, formed in May 2025, unites seven political groups. It includes PMF head Faleh al-Fayyad, Labour Minister Ahmed al-Asadi, and Karbala Governor Nassif al-Khattabi. The alliance also attracts tribal leaders and over 50 MPs, many former independents or defectors from the Shia Coordination Framework (SCF).
Analysts say this coalition looks broad but weak. Many members joined to benefit from al-Sudani’s influence and may abandon him after the polls. His party, Al-Furratain Current, remains the smallest part of the alliance.
Al-Sudani’s focus on Baghdad’s development has angered provincial leaders, who accuse him of neglecting the southern regions. Documents show Baghdad projects received most funds, while provinces saw sharp budget cuts.
SCF leaders, including Nouri al-Maliki and Qais al-Khazali, warn that the next prime minister will still depend on Shia consensus. Al-Sudani now faces a tough test — keeping his coalition intact while convincing rivals to back his second term.
