Amir al-Fayez says no extraordinary Baghdad session expected for cabinet completion

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi parliament member Amir al-Fayez said he does not expect an extraordinary session in Baghdad next week to complete the cabinet, saying the remaining ministers could be named after the legislative recess ends. Al-Fayez said Prime Minister and the Coordination Framework remain determined to finish the cabinet, which he said is necessary for implementing the government program and maintaining stability. He said the current obstacle is the parliament’s entry into legislative recess. He said an extraordinary session could be called, but quorum may be difficult to secure because a large number of lawmakers are traveling or on leave. He also said the relevant political blocs have not yet submitted candidate names for the ministries to the prime minister. According to al-Fayez, the candidate lists could be sent within days if agreement is reached on holding a session. Ammar al-Hakim had earlier said political contacts were continuing over a parliament session for the remaining cabinet seats.