Baghdad, Iraq, 12 December 2023
The Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, attended today a simulation of Election Day processes that was held by Iraq’s Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC).
The simulation included a comprehensive demonstration of all electronic devices to be used on Election Day, such as voter verification devices, polling station count optical scanners, results transmission devices, and cameras. This simulation was conducted successfully, showcasing the technical readiness of IHEC for the Governorate Council elections, scheduled for 18 December 2023.
In accordance with its 2023 mandate, UNAMI advises and assists the work of IHEC. UNAMI will not observe or monitor the 18 December elections, and is therefore not in a position to undertake an assessment of the manner in which the elections are conducted.