BAGHDAD: Iraq’s parliament elected Sunni Muslim lawmaker Haibat Al-Halbousi as speaker at its opening session on Monday following November’s national election, launching a process to form a new government that often takes months. A parliamentary statement said Halbousi secured 208 out of a total of 283 votes. The speaker plays a key role in maintaining legislative order, mediating disputes and building consensus in Iraq’s sectarian-oriented and often fragmented political system.

Haybat al-Halbousi, from the Taqaddum (Progress) Party, has been elected as speaker of the new parliament.

BAGHDAD: Iraq’s parliament elected Sunni Muslim lawmaker Haibat Al-Halbousi as speaker at its opening session on Monday following November’s national election, launching a…