Spokesman for the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) Saedi Ahmed Pire has accused the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) of obstructing the forthcoming parliamentary elections in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, emphasising that these elections are crucial for the region’s stability and should be held as soon as possible.
Pire addressed the media on Sunday, explaining the reasons behind the delayed elections in the Kurdistan Regional Parliament. He pointed directly at the KDP, asserting, “The KDP is preventing the elections from taking place. The sooner these elections are held, the better it will be for the region.”
Pire also drew attention to the political deadlock in Kirkuk, where an agreement on a new governor is yet to be reached. “All political parties in Kirkuk must agree on a governor. It is unacceptable for a party with few seats to block the appointment,” he said.
Highlighting the broader implications of the delay, Pire called for immediate elections to enhance trust in the region. He remarked on the external interest in the elections, stating, “The Kurdistan Parliament is under international scrutiny, and holding the elections promptly will strengthen trust in the region.”
Pire further emphasised the significance of timely polls, and marking the 32nd anniversary of the first Kurdistan parliamentary elections, said, “Given the importance and historical significance of that day, we must commemorate it by ensuring the elections are held,” he added.
The PUK spokesman also dismissed concerns about the allocation of parliamentary seats, stating, “The issue of seat allocation has never been a problem for us. We respect the decisions of the Federal Court.”
In his address, Pire condemned negative media reports from the KDP about Sulaymaniyah, calling them misleading and harmful. He praised the historical role of leaders like Jalal Talabani in fostering democratic elections in Kurdistan.
The news conference came in advance of the convening of Iraq’s Federal Court, deferred to 21 May, to discuss KDP leader Masrour Barzani’s request to postpone the elections.
The conference, held on 19 May, also coincided with the anniversary of the first democratic elections in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, 32 years ago to the day, a significant milestone that highlighted the need for continued democratic practices and respect for electoral processes.
