List of Iraq Presidents
| No. | Name | Term of Office | Political Party |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Muhammad Najib ar-Ruba'i | 1958-1963 | Military |
| 2 | Abdul Salam Arif | 1963-1966 | Military / Arab Socialist Union |
| 3 | Abdul Rahman Arif | 1966-1968 | Military / Arab Socialist Union |
| 4 | Ahmed Hassan al-Bakr | 1968-1979 | Military / Iraqi Ba'ath Party |
| 5 | Saddam Hussein | 1979-2003 | Iraqi Ba'ath Party |
| 6 | Ghazi Mashal Ajil al-Yawer | 2004-2005 | Independent |
| 7 | Jalal Talabani | 2005-2014 | Patriotic Union of Kurdistan |
| 8 | Fuad Masum | 2014-2018 | Patriotic Union of Kurdistan |
| 9 | Barham Salih | 2018-2022 | Patriotic Union of Kurdistan |
| 10 | Abdul Latif Rashid | 2022-present | Patriotic Union of Kurdistan |
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First President of Iraq: Muhammad Najib ar-Ruba’i
Muhammad Najib ar-Ruba’i served as the first President of Iraq from July 14, 1958, until February 8, 1963. He was born in 1904 and was a military officer before entering politics. Ar-Ruba’i played a pivotal role in the coup that overthrew the monarchy in Iraq, which led to the establishment of the Republic.
Achievements
1. Establishment of the Republic: His leadership marked the transition from monarchy to republic, laying the foundational governance structure.
2. National Unity: He was instrumental in forming the Front of National Union, which included various political factions, promoting a sense of national unity.
Downsides
1. Short Tenure: His presidency was cut short by a coup, reflecting instability in the political landscape.
2. Limited Political Experience: His lack of extensive political experience led to challenges in governance.
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Current President of Iraq: Abdul Latif Rashid
Abdul Latif Rashid has been serving as the President of Iraq since October 17, 2022. Born in 1944, he has a background in engineering and has held various governmental roles throughout his career, including serving as Minister of Water Resources.
Achievements
1. Water Resource Management: As Minister, he focused on improving Iraq’s water infrastructure, which is crucial given the country’s challenges with water scarcity.
2. Political Stability: His election as president is seen as a step towards stabilizing Iraq’s political environment post-ISIS.
Downsides
1. Challenges with Corruption: Like many predecessors, he faces the ongoing issue of corruption within the government.
2. Sectarian Tensions: Managing the diverse ethnic and sectarian landscape of Iraq remains a significant challenge.
Current Vice President of Iraq:
There is currently no vice president of Iraq. The position of vice president has been vacant since October 2, 2018
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Conclusion
The presidency of Iraq has transitioned through various leaders since its establishment in 1958, reflecting the country’s tumultuous political history.
Each president has faced unique challenges and has left a distinct mark on the nation. From Muhammad Najib ar-Ruba’i’s establishment of the republic to Abdul Latif Rashid’s current leadership, the role of the president in Iraq has been pivotal in shaping the country’s governance and addressing its challenges.