ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Sheikh Ahmed Ibrahim is not a candidate in Iraq’s parliamentary elections, but his picture is on posters instead of his wife Shayma Sami who is running for Mohammed al-Halbousi's Taqadum Party in Kirkuk.
Ibrahim says he has done this to respect the social traditions of his community and family.
"This is just a sign to show her office details. As you can see, there are many posters along the way that only bear the name and number of the candidate," Ibrahim, who is running his wife's campaign office, told Rudaw. "We come from a tribal background. You do not try to win by putting up your picture. You have a name, tribe, folks and relatives, and loved ones [who vote for you]."
It is not just the posters where Sami is not visible, her husband and other family members also receive her supporters, campaigning on her behalf.
Ibrahim says his wife plans to serve the nation if she makes it to parliament
"We have entered the political process to serve people and our relatives in Kirkuk province," he said. "Our tribe is very big. We have supporters. We do not limit our fan base to our area only. Our supporters are across Kirkuk province."
The situation has drawn a lot of attention and some questions about how Sami will be able to fulfill the public role if she is elected.
"From kitchen to parliament, it is very unfortunate. It will negatively impact the Kirkuk street," said Srud Mohammed, head of the Iraqi Hope Organization. "If she is my representative, she must stand, be able to speak. How can she advocate for my rights when I do not know who she is… This tells us she has been used."
Shayma is the daughter of Sheikh Sami Batushi, chief of the Batushi tribe in the town of Riyadh, southern Kirkuk province. Her husband is a contractor in Kirkuk.
She is one of six women contesting the women’s quota seat in Kirkuk.
Iraq will hold legislative elections on November 11.
