The convoy of Iraqi Parliament Speaker Osama al-Nujaifi was targeted on Sunday, almost two weeks ahead of crucial parliamentary elections.

The procession of Iraqi Parliament Speaker Osama al-Nujaifi was targeted on Sunday, almost two weeks ahead of crucial parliamentary elections.

Al-Manar correspondent said the convoy of al-Nujaifi escaped a bomb attack, south Kirkuk.

He added that al-Nujaifi was not among the convoy members, noting that the attack took place when a roadside bomb exploded as the convoy was heading from Daqouq province to Hawija province.

The convoy was not hit and it didn’t stop, the correspondent added.
Al-Nujaifi is expected to announce his list of candidates on Monday.

Meanwhile on Sunday, a cide bomber detonated an explosives-rigged vehicle at a checkpoint in Kirkuk, killing seven police and wounding 11 officers.

The unrest coincides preparations for nation-wide elections planned for the end of April. Militant groups fighting the Iraqi government had threatened to disrupt the awaited vote.