THE IRAQI STREET IS PAYING THE PRICE FOR BUREAUCRATIC DELAYS, POLITICAL INACTION, AND RISING PRICES.
The political vacuum represents one of the most serious challenges facing the stability of countries emerging from accumulated crises, as the absence of central decision-making becomes a daily reality affecting every aspect of citizens’ lives. The Iraqi scene stands as a prime example, where the impact of political paralysis extends beyond the ruling elites to the public, the economy, the market, and the currency.
The delay in forming a government exacerbates the complexities of the economic and social crises, disrupting support programs, slowing investments, and eroding market confidence. Prices are rising faster than salaries, while demands for services are mounting in major cities. Observers note that local markets have begun to treat political timing as an economic indicator, as financial stability is now practically linked to the clarity of executive authority.
On the other hand, disagreements persist between the major blocs and lists, exceeding the constitutional deadlines for determining the president and prime minister, reflecting a structural flaw in the consensus-building mechanism. Negotiations have devolved into an open-ended tug-of-war, with each faction attempting to secure its position within the future power structure before even agreeing on the government itself.
The government formation crisis then takes on a form that is more a struggle over the nature of the next executive system than a mere competition for positions.
The parties are torn between a broad consensus government model and a political majority model, which is hindering any quick settlement, because the agreement is no longer just on names but on the rules of governance.
In parallel, the political vacuum has entered a critical phase after the constitutional deadlines for voting on senior positions were missed, leaving institutions in a state of administrative limbo. Ministries are hesitant to make long-term decisions for fear of political challenges or a sudden government reshuffle.
This reality is directly reflected in the economic and social fabric of the state, with the salary crisis and rising prices emerging as the first indicators of its impact. Economic anxiety transforms into a general mood that puts pressure on the political process, as citizens feel that the political crisis has shifted from the halls of parliament to the very means of sustenance.
The caretaker government headed by “Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani” operates within limited powers, so it cannot launch infrastructure projects, pass budgets, control the market and monetary policy, or confront the financial deficit. The state becomes a temporary administration, while the heavy economic files require full sovereign decisions.
Election Instability, Maliki Controversy & The Central Bank Question
This week could prove pivotal in Iraq’s ongoing election saga. Political gridlock, constitutional questions, and international pressure are converging at a moment when many are asking the same question:
What is the true status of the Iraqi dinar RV (Revaluation/Reinstatement)?
Let’s focus on the structural realities, separate facts from emotion, and analyze how political instability may be influencing monetary reform.
The Core Question: Can the CBI Move During Political Instability?
The Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) is legally independent. In theory, it has authority over monetary policy decisions, including exchange rate mechanisms.
However, independence does not exist in a vacuum.
Would the CBI move forward with a major currency shift during:
A contested prime minister nomination?
Parliamentary delays?
Constitutional uncertainty?
External geopolitical pressure?
That’s the real debate.
Ali Al-Alaq and Historical Memory
The current governor of the CBI, Ali al-Alaq, was present during one of the most controversial chapters in Iraq’s monetary history.
In December 2012, under then–Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, the CBI was raided and accused of corruption. Former CBI governor Sinan al-Shabibi later characterized those allegations as politically motivated and connected to efforts surrounding currency policy and international positioning.
That historical context matters.
If leadership instability resurfaces, would the CBI risk initiating a sensitive monetary transition?
The Election Impasse: Is Maliki the Central Issue?
Much of the current delay appears tied to the nomination of Nouri al-Maliki for prime minister.
While public discussion has centered on presidential procedures, the deeper political tension reportedly revolves around executive leadership and coalition control.
Trust deficits stemming from prior administrations
Kurdish factions, who traditionally influence the presidential selection process, may hold leverage in delaying broader political formation if consensus is not achieved.
Article Insight: Political Vacuum & Currency Impact
An article titled “The Iraqi Street is Paying the Price for Bureaucratic Delays, Political Inaction, and Rising Prices”highlighted a crucial point:
Political paralysis affects not only governance — but the economy, markets, and even the currency.
This is significant.
Currency stability depends on:
Investor confidence
Predictable governance
Policy continuity
International trust
When political paralysis sets in, monetary action becomes more complex.
International Pressure: Bloomberg Report
According to reporting by Bloomberg, Washington reportedly warned Iraqi officials that Iraq’s access to oil export revenues could be impacted if al-Maliki were to return as prime minister.
The report cited anonymous sources familiar with discussions, including meetings involving:
Ali al-Alaq
Senior U.S. officials
If accurate, this underscores how intertwined geopolitics and financial policy can be.
Oil revenue access is foundational to Iraq’s:
Budget
Currency reserves
Exchange rate management
Monetary stability
Historical U.S.–Iraq Dynamics
During al-Maliki’s previous tenure, relations with the United States shifted under then-President Barack Obama. Broader regional dynamics, including negotiations involving Iran, shaped that era’s diplomatic landscape.
Today’s environment appears different, with renewed scrutiny on alignment, governance transparency, and regional positioning.
Could the RV Happen During This Instability?
Let’s examine this logically.
For a reinstatement or significant exchange adjustment, the CBI would likely require:
Political stability
Clear executive authority
Secure oil revenue channels
International financial coordination
Confidence in policy continuity
Launching a major currency reform without clarity on national leadership could introduce unnecessary risk.
That does not mean reform is canceled. It means timing becomes strategic.
Featured Snippet: How Does Iraq’s Election Instability Affect the RV?
Iraq’s election delays and political uncertainty may impact the timing of any potential dinar revaluation or reinstatement. While the Central Bank of Iraq is legally independent, major currency reforms typically require political stability, secure oil revenues, and international coordination.
Five Structural Issues Still in Play
While not all are publicly detailed, observers often point to unresolved structural elements, including:
Executive leadership confirmation
Parliamentary consensus
Constitutional clarification
Oil revenue security
International alignment
Any one of these can influence timing.
The Silence Factor
One notable observation: limited forward-facing economic messaging from key nomination figures regarding:
Fiscal reform
Banking modernization
Currency strategy
International market integration
In high-stakes elections, detailed economic platforms are typically central. Their absence raises questions among observers.
Q&A Section
❓ Is the CBI truly independent?
Yes, legally the Central Bank of Iraq operates independently. However, macroeconomic stability and political confidence influence monetary decisions.
❓ Did the 2012 CBI incident affect currency policy?
The 2012 events under Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki disrupted the CBI’s operations and leadership, which coincided with discussions about currency positioning.
❓ Could oil revenue restrictions affect the dinar?
Yes. Iraq’s oil revenues are central to maintaining foreign reserves and exchange rate stability.
❓ Can the RV happen suddenly?
Monetary decisions can move quickly once prerequisites align. However, structural readiness typically precedes action.
The Bottom Line
The RV discussion cannot be separated from:
Election stability
Executive leadership outcomes
Oil revenue access
International diplomacy
Historical precedent
The Central Bank may have the authority. But will it move without political clarity?
I hope everyone is ready for a pivotal week in this Iraqi election saga. The news this period connects many pieces together and confirms to all of us what my contact in the CBI has been saying all along.
So, let’s get to the FACTS and forget the rest of the bullshit from many of these idiotic intel gurus out there with their everyday / anyday scenarios. Folks once again I warn everyone that there are still these five (5) issues that need to be worked out and resolved. But remember how Iraq works. Things could speed up and change on a dime, if they want it to.
I know, I know the CBI is independent and can actually RV anytime they want to. The question is will they? Yes, will they with the instability from the election cycle. Ali al-Alaq also remember Maliki’s two terms and remembers when he came after the CBI with false allegations of corruption, in what Dr Shabibi later said was nothing more than to stop the reinstatement of the dinar from going back to FOREX. So, you tell me knowing all this if Ali Al-Alaq is going to RV with the stability element of the elections in play. What do you believe will happen?
The delays in the elections cycle all stem around ONE issue – the nomination of the good-for-nothing, peanut-head Nori al-Maliki for prime minister. Oh… but you may say that you thought it was the presidential nomination and not the prime minister so much that was the next step and was holding up the process? Folks we must sit back in times like this and think about what is really going on.
Since Kurdistan is outwardly against Maliki then they have the power to hold up the process since the Kurds decide the presidential candidate. Remember Maliki was trying to buy old WW2 Russian tanks and then wanted to start a war with the Kurds for control of the oil up north. Get it?
The Kurds are holding up the process until Maliki is out!!!!! But didn’t Mnt Goat tell you last week this was all settled and the presidential candidate was announced? Yes, I did however Maliki deceived the Kurds and lied about his withdrawal from the nomination. Later he pulled back and said it was the Coordination Framework that would have to withdrawal him. He has a lust for power and will not let go unless someone else does it for him.
Let’s take a peek at the article titled “THE IRAQI STREET IS PAYING THE PRICE FOR BUREAUCRATIC DELAYS, POLITICAL INACTION, AND RISING PRICES”.
How does this election cycle affect our long-awaited RV? We read and I quote – “that the political vacuum represents one of the most serious challenges facing the stability of countries emerging from accumulated crises, as the absence of central decision-making becomes a daily reality affecting every aspect of citizens’ lives. The Iraqi scene stands as a prime example, where the impact of political paralysis extends beyond the ruling elites to the public, the economy, the market, and the currency”. Did you read this? Is says the political paralysis extends to affect even the currency.
We know for a FACT that if this election has gone smoothly we would have been at the bank by now and this reinstatement completed. But tell me how can the CBI justify the reinstatement and the swap out of the notes in times like this instability not knowing the future even of the direction of the country. And we all know that if Maliki should be the next prime minister, Iraq would take a drastic direction down the toilet. Remember Ali al-Alaq was in the CBI and one the deputies under Dr Shabibi when the then prime minister Maliki raided the CBI in the December of 2012 and falsely accused the bank of corruption. This halted the reinstatement in January. Yes, he remembers Malaki and his tactics all too well.
So, again we get the true picture of this guy Maliki and how he is the great liar and deceiver. Even during his first two terms he made agreements and later rolled back on them. He came to the US twice under the then president Barrack Obama and so we will just let you stew on that one for a while as to which US president was an Iranian sympathizer….. Was something going on between Obama and Iran?
And we won’t even get into Maliki’s total disregard for the new Iraqi constitution back then too. But he is doing it again now as his lust for power takes precedence over his regards for Iraq and settling this election saga. He has the power to settle the impasse and do it quickly. All he has to do is resign his nomination and pull out. He should have done this weeks ago.
Let’s also take a peek at the article titled “BLOOMBERG: WASHINGTON THREATENS BAGHDAD WITH REDUCED OIL REVENUES IF MALIKI RETURNS TO THE PREMIERSHIP” In the article we read that Bloomberg reported on Tuesday “that Washington had informed Iraqi officials in recent days that it might reduce Iraq’s access to oil export revenues if Nouri al-Maliki were appointed prime minister, given the United States’ view of him as being close to Iran”. Yes, too close, the Obama era closeness still lingers with Maliki. By the way this corruption of Obama and Iran with the nuclear deal is all coming out now. I find it amazing how TNT Tony can worship this guy Obama. We can clearly see the racism in this guy Tony Renfrow too as he overlooks the FACTS as greed and race overrides his patriotism. Just remember the many promises made to all you TNT members way back since 2013 by these so-called three letter agency guys, then who was president at the time. Obama has absolutely no intention of EVER getting this reinstatement completed and orchestrated the stoppage of the reinstatement back in 2012 through his buddy Maliki. Enough said…. Who are you going to worship now Tony?
I continue quotes from the article– “The agency, in a report citing sources who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the talks, indicated that the United States issued a new warning during a meeting held last week in Turkey between the governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Ali Al-Alaq, and senior American officials.”
Remember I said in my earlier Newsletter that Maliki has not given even a political speech as to what he intends to do for Iraq to make it great again. Does this strike yu strange? Yes, not a peep about what he plans to do as prime minister should he get elected, yet he was the top candidate for the nomination of the Coordination Framework. Something funky going on here….
THE CENTRAL BANK OF IRAQ CLARIFIES THE MECHANISMS FOR DEALING WITH THE DOLLAR IN ALL ITS ISSUANCES.
The Central Bank of Iraq, in a directive to licensed banks and non-bank financial institutions, stressed the importance of reducing discrimination in the exchange rate of the US dollar between old and new issues, stressing the need for all banks and financial institutions to adhere to the instructions for trading and exchanging banknotes, in accordance with the approved standards for foreign banknotes, especially the US dollar, in order to ensure the safety of monetary transactions and market stability.
instructions and regulations in force do not adopt any discrimination between the different editions of the US dollar currency, noting that the bank continues to receive these issues and deal with them through all authorized banks, provided that they are within the internationally and locally approved standards and regulations.
This clarification comes within the framework of the Central Bank of Iraq’s commitment to enhancing transparency and discipline in the banking sector, protecting customers, and supporting monetary and financial stability in Iraq.
Central Bank of Iraq, Media Office, February 16, 2026
SHOWDOWN: President Donald Trump (U.S.) vs Nouri al-Maliki (Iraq)
Who Will “Make Iraq Great Again”?
A high-stakes political moment is unfolding in Iraq. With pressure mounting to convene parliament and elect a new president, internal negotiations are intensifying — and international signals are adding another layer of complexity.
At the center of the debate:
Donald Trump
Nouri al-Maliki
But this isn’t just about personalities. It’s about political alignment, constitutional interpretation, and international positioning at a critical moment.
The Coordinating Framework Seeks an Alternative
Reports indicate that Iraq’s Coordinating Framework is exploring an alternative candidate to al-Maliki as discussions continue over forming consensus.
According to statements attributed to leaders within the Hikma Movement, efforts are underway to identify a candidate acceptable to:
Major Shiite blocs
Kurdish factions
Sunni representatives
International stakeholders
The goal: avoid a parliamentary deadlock that could stall the electoral process.
The U.S. Position: A Reported Veto?
Recent commentary suggests that Washington remains opposed to al-Maliki’s return to executive leadership.
While there is no formal public “veto” mechanism in Iraq’s constitutional process, U.S. political influence remains significant. Donald Trump has previously signaled strong interest in Iraqi leadership outcomes, emphasizing that U.S.–Iraq relations are strategically important.
The message being interpreted by some observers: Any candidate must be workable within broader U.S.–Iraq cooperation frameworks.
Constitutional Pressure: Article 72 in Focus
The situation has now shifted to Iraq’s judiciary.
The Federal Supreme Court of Iraq is reportedly being asked to clarify Article 72 / Paragraph Two / Clause (B) of the Iraqi Constitution.
This clause addresses:
The continuation of the President of the Republic in office
The timeline for electing a successor
If ambiguity exists in the interpretation, the court’s ruling could determine:
Whether current leadership continues temporarily
Whether parliament must accelerate elections
Whether the process resets politically
Everyone appears to be waiting for the court’s response.
If no agreement is reached before a vote, the session could falter — potentially prolonging instability.
If a compromise candidate emerges, momentum could shift rapidly.
Featured Snippet: What Is Happening in Iraq’s Presidential Election?
Iraq’s Coordinating Framework is reportedly seeking an alternative to Nouri al-Maliki amid political pressure and reported U.S. opposition. The Federal Supreme Court is being asked to clarify Article 72 of the Constitution, which could determine how and when a new president is elected.
Trump vs. Maliki: What’s Really at Stake?
This is less about a personal rivalry and more about:
Iraq’s international alignment
Internal Shiite bloc unity
U.S.–Iraq strategic relations
Regional balance of power
Al-Maliki remains an influential figure in Iraqi politics. However, controversy surrounding his previous tenure continues to shape debate.
The question being asked in political circles:
Will Iraq choose continuity, compromise, or a completely new direction?
Possible Scenarios
1️⃣ Consensus Candidate Emerges
The Coordinating Framework agrees on a new nominee acceptable to domestic blocs and international partners.
2️⃣ Parliamentary Session Falters
Without prior agreement, voting stalls and negotiations reset.
3️⃣ Court Clarification Reshapes Timeline
The Federal Supreme Court ruling changes procedural timing, giving factions more room to negotiate.
Q&A Section
❓ Is there officially a U.S. veto on Iraqi candidates?
There is no constitutional U.S. veto in Iraq’s system. However, U.S. political influence can impact diplomatic and economic dynamics.
❓ What does Article 72 of Iraq’s Constitution address?
It concerns the term and continuation of the President of the Republic and the timeline for electing a successor.
❓ Why is consensus so important before a parliamentary vote?
Without prior political agreement, sessions risk failing due to lack of quorum or bloc opposition.
❓ Could this impact Iraq’s broader reforms?
Political stability is foundational for economic, institutional, and international reforms. Leadership decisions can influence momentum across sectors.
No Rumors. No Hype. No Opinions.
The developments described above are based on reported political positioning and public procedural actions.
Key facts:
The Coordinating Framework is seeking broader agreement.
The Hikma Movement confirms alternative discussions.
The Federal Supreme Court is being asked for constitutional clarification.
THE COORDINATING FRAMEWORK IS LOOKING FOR AN ALTERNATIVE TO MALIKI. As pressure mounts to convene a parliamentary session to elect a new president, an Iraqi parliamentarian warned that the process could falter without a prior political agreement. Meanwhile, with the US vetoing Nouri al-Maliki's candidacy remaining in place, a leader in the Hikma Movement revealed that the coordinating body is working to identify a new candidate acceptable to all parties. Meanwhile the Federal Supreme Court to request clarification regarding Article (72)/ Paragraph Two/ Clause (B) of the Constitution, which relates to the continuation of the President of the Republic in his duties and setting a date for the election of his successor, stressing that everyone
is waiting for the court's response. This could be a pivotal week for the elections.....
Their words not mine..... No Rumors, No Hype, No Opinions ,....
Nouri Al-Maliki, head of the State of Law Coalition, rejected reports of a possible withdrawal from the race for Iraq’s premiership, as the Shiite Coordination Framework (CF) intensifies internal deliberations over its nominee, sources told Shafaq News on Monday.
A source close to the former premier described the claims of an imminent retreat as “politically motivated rumors,” stressing that no meeting of the CF, the largest parliamentary bloc which had previously nominated Al-Maliki, was scheduled Monday to announce or formalize any decision.
Meanwhile, senior figures within the Framework have held consultative meetings to reassess the nomination. A CF source revealed that leaders who oppose Al-Maliki’s return sought to unify positions within the Shiite political house and discussed the possibility of selecting an alternative from a previously proposed list of candidates.
The source cited mounting domestic crises, regional instability, and external pressure as key factors shaping the debate, adding that some factions fear that accumulated challenges could trigger public backlash against the broader political process. “The final decision remains in the hands of the Framework.”
Naseem Abdullah, a member of the political bureau of the Eqtadar Watan Movement within the CF, underlined that the alliance would consider “the challenges facing the country and the issue of national consensus” before resolving the matter, emphasizing that a unified decision is the objective.
Under Iraq’s post-2003 power-sharing arrangement, the presidency is traditionally held by a Kurd, the premiership by a Shiite, and the speakership by a Sunni Arab. Parliament must elect a president by a two-thirds quorum before the head of state can task the largest parliamentary bloc with forming a government. Previous attempts collapsed after divisions between the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) prevented quorum.
Political tensions have further escalated following a warning by US President Donald Trump that Washington could reconsider its dealings with Iraq if Al-Maliki were to return as prime minister. A CF source also disclosed that caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani received a written proposal to extend the caretaker government’s mandate for one year with reduced powers as a possible way to ease the impasse.
The conversation surrounding Iraq’s monetary reform continues to intensify. Political commentary, strategic messaging, and financial reform signals are all moving in parallel. But despite the mounting speculation, several critical elements have NOT been officially announced.
Let’s break down exactly what is missing — and why it matters.
What Has NOT Been Officially Announced?
According to multiple analysts following developments closely, three major announcements are still absent:
1️⃣ The New Exchange Rate
Despite ongoing discussions about monetary reform and closing economic gaps, no official new exchange rate has been released by the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI).
If Iraq were to formally adjust its currency value to reflect broader economic reforms, it would require:
A public CBI declaration
Official documentation
Publication across recognized financial channels
Until that happens, the exchange rate remains unchanged in official capacity.
What has not been officially announced? #1 the new exchange rate to fill in the gap of all this [monetary reform] they're talking about. #2 A reinstatement or international float. #3 A public statement that the dinar is now globally traded. Those require a formal CBI announcement and they haven't issued that yet...The wiring is done. The switch hasn't been flipped.
Clare
Article: "Trump comments on the coordinating framework candidate: We have some options" Quote: "Days after his blog post, in which he spoke of not cooperating with Iraq if Nouri al-Maliki were chosen as prime minister, US President Donald Trump returned with a new statement...Trump, in response to a question from a Rudaw Network reporter about whether he had a veto on Nouri al-Maliki, said: 'We are looking at a prime minister, we will see what happens, we have some ideas on the subject, in the end everyone needs the United States."
Militia Man
Gatekeepers are getting exactly what they want, a controlled, credible transition to a more market reflective system...They're telling us in full force we're doing these things. The political noise is...the right hand. Left hand, pay attention. [Like a magic trick].
Was something going on between Obama and Iran?