The agendas of Iraqi politicians following the US-led invasion in 2003 have not involved investment of Iraq’s natural resource wealth in sustainable development, improving the miserable living conditions, laying the foundations for societal peace or ultimately overcoming the previous dark era. Instead, they have often resorted to sectarianism, partisanship, and ethnic nationalism to further entrench themselves in positions that allow them to fill their own personal coffers while perpetuating problems and deepening rifts in Iraqi society.

As many Iraqi political analysts have noted, these dynamics are especially true in the lead-up to every parliamentary vote—including the one set to take place on Oct. 10....