Will reforms require shrinking the size of Iraq's parliament?
Some parliamentary blocs' efforts to cut the number of parliamentarians is facing obstacles, including the constitutional quota system, which currently calls for an increase in members.
BAGHDAD — According to several political blocs, Iraq's parliament is too big and the number of representatives should be cut significantly to improve efficiency, eliminate corruption and save money. Others say there should be more members because of a population increase and a cut would require a constitutional amendment.
The idea of reducing the number of parliament members is not new; the executive branch called for a cut Feb. 25. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi said a downsizing would be a step toward reducing expenditures and bringing about the reform desired by his government. Abadi's Cabinet approved his sweeping reform proposals designed to eliminate corruption earlier this month, but they still need parliamentary approval. Hundreds of protesters have demonstrated in support of reform.
