Despite insurgents' threats to disrupt voting, Iraqis went to the polls in peace. But record numbers stayed home, and some parties are alleging fraud.
Interviews with candidates across the political spectrum provide insight into the forces shaping Iraq's electoral landscape and influencing upcoming negotiations to form the next government.
One of Kurdistan's new political parties is challenging the ruling KDP in its traditional stronghold of Dohuk.
A leading member of the PUK in Kirkuk discusses his expectations for Kurdish electoral turnout in disputed territories and post-election dynamics in Baghdad.
A senior figure in the Badr Organization running on Hadi al-Amiri's Fatah list discusses his expectations for national elections.
The war against IS has created immense, unmet reconstruction challenges - and reshuffled the electoral landscape in Iraq's second-largest city.
A member of Ammar al-Hakim's newly formed party says they are focusing on the youth vote while attempting to end the Dawa party's hold on the premiership.
A member of the State of Law coalition says voters keen on improving the economy will help bring the former PM back to power.
The KRG's ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party is trying to retain influence and win votes in Iraq's national elections despite losing control of key disputed territories.
BP's consulting deal to help maximize Kirkuk production now includes more fields, including key assets currently managed by the KRG.
