Iraqi coalition says cabinet reshuffle plan blocked, five ministers referred to judiciary

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Construction and Development Coalition said former Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani's cabinet submitted a proposal to replace six ministers, but political groups rejected the move. Coalition spokesman Firas al-Muslamawi said there was insufficient political support to complete the reform process at the time, and that five ministers were referred to the judiciary. Muslamawi said the Sudani government had carried out a broad reform process covering all general directorates across state institutions. Separately, an anti-corruption operation on Sunday led to the detention of politicians, lawmakers and business figures, an effort Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani described as a "first phase." Sadrist movement leader Muqtada al-Sadr called the operation a "heroic reform campaign" and called for a peaceful demonstration after Friday prayers next week in support of the government's steps. The Federal Integrity Commission said arrest warrants were being implemented within the law and under judicial supervision. According to government sources, the campaign will continue in the coming days, and the return of public funds could be considered once judicial proceedings are completed.