Barzani urges unity ahead of Iraqi elections
Kurdistan Region President Masoud Barzani addressed university professors, writers, journalists, artists, and athletes on Monday in Erbil about democratic principles and constitutional rights ahead of Iraq’s sixth parliamentary elections. Barzani emphasized that elections represent a fundamental democratic tool for citizens to shape their future and recalled his 1991 call for elections in Koya as a foundational principle for the region. He noted that the 1992 elections established Kurdistan’s institutions, and the 2005 nationwide vote followed Iraq’s constitutional adoption.
Barzani expressed concerns about Iraq’s electoral law changes after 2010, but stressed participation remains a national obligation for public benefit. He reflected on sacrifices that produced regional achievements and stated that Kurdish leadership worked to build a democratic Iraq after 2003 through the 2005 constitution. Barzani criticized persistent centralist attitudes in Baghdad and said leaders would accept nothing less than constitutional compliance.
The president voiced optimism that the current agreement among the Kurdistan Regional Government, federal authorities, and international oil firms would succeed and establish foundations for comprehensive energy legislation. He warned against negative campaigns targeting Kurdish confidence and identity, and urged citizens to reject efforts promoting despair. Barzani called for respectful campaigns where voters freely choose candidates, and emphasized that the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the regional government focus on infrastructure development and prosperity for all residents.
