In a recent statement from the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) President Masoud Barzani, it has been asserted that the new candidate for the Iraqi speakership of parliament should be determined through Sunni consensus. This declaration precedes a parliamentary session scheduled for Wednesday morning to elect a new speaker, prompted by the termination of Mohammed Al-Halboosi's membership following a federal Supreme Court decision.

According to the press release from Barzani Headquarters, President Barzani emphasized that the candidate elected for the Iraqi speaker of parliament should either represent Sunni consensus or have the approval of the majority of Sunni representatives in the Council of Representatives. Barzani considers the top parliamentary post as the quota of the Sunni component within Iraq's political system.

Since the overthrow of Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003, Iraq has operated under the Muhasasa system, an ethno-sectarian quota system. As per this system, the Iraqi president, a largely ceremonial role, is filled by a Kurd, the speaker of parliament is a Sunni Muslim, and the Iraqi premiership is allocated to a Shiite Muslim.

Mohammed Al-Halboosi, the outgoing speaker and head of the Taqadoom (Progressive) party, has contested the termination of his membership, challenging the legality of the verdict that accused him of falsifying official documents.

The KDP issued a warning on Thursday, expressing concern that the removal of the speaker could "deepen tensions" in the country. Additionally, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani criticized the timing of the decision, deeming it as "wrong."

The development adds a layer of complexity to Iraq's political landscape, raising questions about the potential impact on the already delicate balance of power in the region. The focus on Sunni consensus underscores the importance of ethno-sectarian considerations in the selection of key political figures within the Iraqi government.