Iraqi PM says upcoming elections only solution to Iraq's problems

BAGHDAD, Sept. 12 Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi said on Saturday that the upcoming legislative elections on Oct. 10 are the only solution to Iraq's problems, urging Iraqis to vote for a better future for the country.

During a meeting with the Iraqi electoral commission to discuss the polls' preparations, al-Kadhimi said "exactly 29 days later, the early parliamentary elections will be held, which represent the only solution to Iraq's problems," according to a statement issued by his media office.

The prime minister said that the Iraqi authorities have taken strict measures to ensure the prevention of fraud attempts, stressing that there is a coordination to provide a UN and international presence to monitor the elections.

"We urge effective participation in the early elections, as our children deserve a better future and a dignified life, and the time has come for them to enjoy a state free of corruption and injustice," the statement quoted al-Kadhimi as saying.

Iraq is set to hold early elections on Oct. 10, 2021, in response to the anti-government protests against corruption and lack of public services. The previous parliamentary elections in Iraq were held on May 12, 2018, and the next elections were originally scheduled for 2022.