The Kurdistan region belongs to "the Kurdistani people"

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Kurdish Citizens Abroad Return to Vote

Kurdish citizens living abroad have returned to the Kurdistan Region to participate in the sixth session of the parliamentary elections, demonstrating their commitment to safeguarding the Region’s constitutional structure and future

Bewar Bamarni, a returning voter, emphasized the significance of voting for parties that have tangibly contributed to regional development. “When I came back to Duhok, I saw new streets and good progress in my city. It’s important to vote for the party that has worked for the people,” he told Kurdistan 24.

Nazat Husso, a Kurdish citizen residing in Sweden, voiced her support for the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), citing the party’s role in defending Kurdistan and providing stability. “We will vote for the KDP for peace, stability, and prosperity. If Kurdistan citizens want a peaceful life, they should vote for List 190,” she said.

The participation of citizens from abroad reflects their collective desire to maintain peace and progress in the Kurdistan Region, strengthening the electoral process and contributing to the Region's ongoing development

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/862404

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Preliminary results day after vote

The preliminary results of the Kurdistan Region’s parliamentary elections will be announced the day after the vote, an official from the federal electoral body said on Friday

Imad Jamil, spokesperson for Iraq’s Independent Electoral High Commission, told Rudaw that preliminary results will be announced on October 21.

Kurdistan Region’s long-overdue legislative poll is scheduled for October 20, with early voting taking place two days before.

The United Nations will not be monitoring the Kurdish election, Samir F. Ghattas, spokesperson for the UN Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI), told Rudaw on Friday.

"We provide technical support and advice to the electoral institutions. UNAMI will not be monitoring the elections in Kurdistan. However, as part of our work in the field of human rights, we will continue to monitor the ground and raise any issues of concern," he said.

A total of 1,191 candidates are vying for the 100-seat Kurdistan parliament, according to the electoral commission. That number includes 823 men, 368 women, and 38 candidates from minority communities.

There will be 1,400 polling stations, including locations in the disputed areas and most Iraqi provinces.

The United States will send a team of 103 observers to monitor the process, an election monitor told Rudaw on Tuesday. Other countries are also expected to send observers.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/kurdistan/041020241

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PM Barzani Highlights Key Achievements

Future Plans in Recent Interview

Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani highlighted on Friday several key objectives and achievements of his cabinet, ranging from international relations to domestic development efforts

During an interview with Ava Media, PM Barzani emphasized that the upcoming parliamentary elections are critical, marking a division between political forces aiming to weaken the Kurdistan Region and others, such as the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), which are dedicated to strengthening the Region’s sovereignty and economic progress.

On the subject of the intrastate disputes between Baghdad and Erbil, he expressed optimism, stating that both sides have a strong tendency to resolve issues concerning Kurdistan’s share of the budget and constitutional rights, despite internal and external efforts to escalate the conflict.

PM Barzani also discussed the Region’s ability to navigate crises through partnerships with the private sector. By integrating private sector investments, the government has been able to finance developmental initiatives and improve public services. He noted that the electricity supply is expected to reach 24 hours a day within the next two years.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister stressed that digital transformation and economic diversification are central pillars of the ninth cabinet’s agenda. Key focus areas include improving water and food security, enhancing both digital and physical infrastructure, and creating an inclusive financial system.

PM Barzani also touched on the Region's growing stature on the international stage, crediting collective diplomatic efforts for positioning Kurdistan as an "independent state" in global relations and forums. He highlighted that global leaders now frequently visit the Region, recognizing its increasing importance in international diplomacy.

These remarks underscore the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) ongoing efforts to strengthen its international standing, economic development, and domestic reforms, despite the challenges it faces.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/862430

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VP Barzani Urges Support for KDP

Masrour Barzani, Vice President of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), addressed a gathering of investors and businessmen in Duhok on Saturday, calling for their support in the upcoming Kurdistan Region Parliamentary elections

VP Barzani emphasized the significance of the elections, which he described as "decisive" for the future of Kurdistan. "I am pleased to be at your service today with the candidates of List 190 of the KDP for the Kurdistan Parliamentary elections," he said, underscoring the importance of the vote for both the present and future generations.

During his speech, VP Barzani acknowledged the challenges faced by the Region, stating, “There have been many attempts to weaken the structure of the Kurdistan Region, but with the support of God and the resilience of the Kurdish people, we will overcome all crises.”

He stressed the importance of voter participation in shaping the Region’s future, reminding the audience that the elections hold special importance due to their timing and potential impact. “Elections are always decisive for any society and nation, but in this election, the timing and results are crucial for us,” he said.

Encouraging voters to take part in the electoral process, VP Barzani remarked, "The person who does not vote should be aware that others may vote in ways that do not reflect their interests. If you want results that benefit you and your community, encourage others to vote."

He further highlighted the KDP’s role as a unifying force, stating that the party has consistently served as an umbrella for diverse ideas and opinions in Kurdistan. He expressed confidence in the party’s future leadership, noting, “The KDP has never compromised the rights of the Kurdish people and has achieved great successes. We are confident that with the leadership we are proud of, the KDP will continue to achieve even greater victories.”

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/862503

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Over 5,000 Projects Completed

in Five Years

The Kurdistan Region’s Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism announced on Sunday that more than 5,000 various service projects, worth approximately 4.66 trillion dinars, have been implemented during the five years of the ninth cabinet, led by PM Masrour Barzani

According to a report from the ministry, 5,440 service projects have been undertaken across the Kurdistan Region, with the majority already completed and others nearing completion. These projects were funded through the investment budget, ministry revenues, regular budget allocations, and contributions from foreign organizations, universities, and agencies.

Additional projects are planned for the near future

Classification of Projects by Sector:

Municipal Sector: 2,004 projects completed, valued at 2.79 trillion dinars.
Water Sector: 2,755 projects completed, valued at 1.79 trillion dinars.
Archaeological Sector: 167 projects completed, valued at 34.1 billion dinars.
Tourism Sector: 118 projects completed, valued at 48.7 billion dinars.

These developments highlight the regional government's commitment to infrastructure and service improvements, with a significant number of projects enhancing local communities across the Region.

The Director General of Water Resources of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has stated that six dams and 45 ponds have been built in the last two years of the ninth cabinet.

On Saturday, Karwan Hawrami, Director General of Water Resources, said in a statement that one of the problems faced by the Kurdistan Region since the beginning of the ninth cabinet has been water security.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/862566

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Veteran Peshmergas urge support for parties defending

Kurdistan’s hard-won achievements

As the elections approach, the message from these veterans is clear: the protection of Kurdistan’s sovereignty, prosperity, and peace is paramount, and they urge the people to stand behind those who will continue the Peshmerga's legacy of resistance and pride

Veteran Peshmerga fighters are calling on the people of Kurdistan to vote for parties that will protect the region’s status and preserve the sacrifices made by the Peshmerga and the blood of martyrs.

These seasoned fighters, who have dedicated their lives to defending Kurdistan, emphasize that the region's prosperity and peace were achieved through immense toil and sacrifice.

Izzat Ismail, a retired Peshmerga, spoke to Kurdistan 24, reflecting on his decades of service.

"I have dedicated my entire life to being a Peshmerga and have served since the September Revolution without pause. If we look across the Kurdistan Region, services have reached all corners," he said, urging unity in protecting the region's gains.

Similarly, Awni Shakak, another veteran Peshmerga who has served since the 1970s, remains deeply connected to the cause of Kurdistan. Despite being wounded several times during the revolution, his resolve remains unshaken.

He still views the Peshmerga as the driving force behind Kurdistan’s achievements. "The Peshmerga is the owner of all Kurdistan's accomplishments," Shakak remarked.

Awni Shakak, also a retired Peshmerga, delivered a passionate appeal to the Kurdish people, urging them to defend the region’s hard-earned progress. "I call on the Kurdish nation to protect this entity and not lose it, because these achievements were not easily won.

Thousands of people shed their blood on this land. I urge everyone to go to the polls together and vote for those who will defend Kurdistan’s people and territory," he said, adding a stern warning against supporting those who have "sold their land."

The Peshmerga, who have spent their lives defending Kurdistan’s territory, now look to the people to ensure that the legacy of their struggle is preserved.

They call on citizens to vote for a party that will honor the blood of the martyrs and continue to safeguard the region’s achievements.

As the elections approach, the message from these veterans is clear: the protection of Kurdistan’s sovereignty, prosperity, and peace is paramount, and they urge the people to stand behind those who will continue the Peshmerga's legacy of resistance and pride.

During the meeting in Duhok, KDP Vice President Masrour Barzani emphasized that this election is a critical and historic moment for the region’s governance and the well-being of future generations.

During the meeting with educators in Duhok, KDP Vice President Masrour Barzani emphasized that this election is a critical and historic moment for the region’s governance and the well-being of future generations.

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – On Sunday, Masrour Barzani, Vice President of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), met with educators from Duhok University, stressing the significance of the upcoming parliamentary elections for the future of the Kurdistan Region.

During the meeting in Duhok, the KDP Vice President Masrour Barzani emphasized that this election is a critical and historic moment for the region’s governance and the well-being of future generations.

"This election will decide the fate of our country," Barzani stated. "The decision we make in this election will determine the future of our children and the governance of the Kurdistan Region for the next four years. The election results will not only impact that single day but will shape the next four years of rule, based on the choices we make," he said.

Masrour Barzani passionately urged the teachers and the broader public to recognize the weight of their participation. "I ask you, my brothers and sisters, and all those watching and listening, to make a national decision in this election. We owe it to the blood of martyrs, the sacrifices of the Peshmerga, and the resilience of our heroic people to ensure this achievement does not go to waste," he stressed.

Barzani dismissed the notion that individual votes might not matter. "If we don't vote, others will decide for us. Especially you, dear teachers, you carry a sacred responsibility. You must guide citizens, students, and anyone you influence to go to the polls and vote to secure their future. I believe you will make the right decision," he encouraged.

He called on not only teachers but also their relatives, neighbors, and students to participate actively in the upcoming election. "We expect all of you to be at the polls on October 20 and vote for List 190 of the KDP," Barzani urged.

Highlighting the importance of the election in light of regional uncertainties, Barzani noted, "Rapid changes are taking place around us, and it is unclear where the fate of the region is headed. This is why our country needs wise decisions and strong leadership. The country cannot be run by speeches and promises alone."

Barzani underscored the need for voters to reflect on the past performances of political parties before making their choice. "We must carefully consider whether each political party is truly capable of leading the country," he concluded.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/80 ... hievements

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Some citizens of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) living abroad have returned to participate in the sixth session of the KRG parliamentary elections.

Their participation highlights a collective desire to protect the Kurdistan Region's constitutional structure and cast their votes for the party that promises peace, prosperity, and welfare for the people.

Bewar Bamarni, a returning voter, shared his views with Kurdistan24, emphasizing the importance of voting for parties that have tangibly improved the region.

"Every citizen should vote for any list, but they should also be aware of which party has worked and provided services. When I traveled and came back to Duhok, I saw new streets and good progress in my city. That is one of the most important points—knowing who deserves your vote,” he said.

Bamarni also underscored the significance of coexistence within the election process. "Another point that is very important is coexistence. No matter our nation or background, we are beautiful together. Living together harmoniously is a key value for this election," he added.

Nazat Husso, a Kurdish citizen residing in Sweden, echoed a similar sentiment, expressing her support for the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP). “The KDP is the party that defends Kurdistan, has developed it, and has provided peace. We will vote for the Kurdistan Democratic Party for peace, stability, and prosperity for Kurdistan. If Kurdistan citizens want a peaceful life, they should vote for List 190.”

Many citizens abroad have recognized the importance of the sixth round of parliamentary elections and have returned to Kurdistan to cast their votes.

Their participation not only strengthens the electoral process but also contributes to protecting the peace and progress that have been established in the region.

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MyAccount Prevents Political Pressure

Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) Vice President Masrour Barzani emphasized the importance of ensuring that no political parties use the salaries of public employees as leverage during an election campaign speech in Duhok on Sunday

He described the ‘MyAccount’ project as a safeguard to prevent any party from exerting pressure through salaries, stressing that employees’ rights must be protected.

VP Barzani also called for unity and reconciliation as the Kurdistan Region approaches its parliamentary elections on October 20. Addressing women, students, and youth, he reaffirmed the KDP’s dedication to defending the national identity of Kurdistan.

He noted that since the party’s inception, it has faced continuous efforts to divide Kurds. “The KDP was established not to compete with other parties, but to confront oppression and invaders. Today, the enemies of the KDP have never been weaker, but we will extend a hand of peace to everyone,” the KDP leader said.

He highlighted the KDP’s role in protecting the rights of minorities, including Christians and Turkmens. “We are proud that we have always stood for the rights of all nationalities and religions. Every nation and religion has the right to live together in peace under the KDP,” he added, emphasizing the party’s mission as a unifying force across Kurdistan.

The vice president urged party supporters not to retaliate against political attacks, referring to recent criticisms aimed at the KDP. “Our refusal to respond to these insults is in itself an answer. October 20 is the day you will respond through the ballot box,” he stated.

He concluded by encouraging all Kurds to contribute to building a stronger, more prosperous Kurdistan

KDP Vice President Barzani also serves as the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region. His cabinet announced the “MyAccount” project in February 2023, aiming to digitize payments for over one million employees, security forces, and pensioners. The project seeks to reduce reliance on cash transactions, enhance government efficiency, and promote transparency.

The initiative is part of the Ninth Cabinet’s strategy for the digital transformation of public services, ensuring timely and secure salary disbursements, minimizing the risk of theft, and reducing long queues for salary collection.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/862597

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KDP Vice President Masrour Barzani

to lead mass rally in Zakho

The event will show support for KDP’s List 190, marking a crucial moment in the party's bid for electoral success

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – On Monday, Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) Vice President Masrour Barzani will lead a major campaign rally in Zakho city as part of the election drive for the sixth session of the Kurdistan Parliamentary elections.

The event will show support for KDP’s List 190, marking a crucial moment in the party's bid for electoral success.

During two separate meetings held on Sunday in Duhok with university teachers and youth, Barzani confidently expressed that the KDP is set to secure the top position in the upcoming parliamentary elections.

Speaking to the youth, he reaffirmed the party's leadership role in the Kurdistan Region, stressing that the KDP would maintain its position as the leading political force under the guidance of President Masoud Barzani.

“The KDP was not established to compete with any political party but to stand against oppression and occupation,” Barzani declared. “Since its founding, it has remained united and free, and with the support of God and the beloved people of Kurdistan, it grows stronger by the day.”

The sixth session of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) parliamentary elections is set to take place on October 20, marking a pivotal moment in the region's political landscape.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/80 ... -elections

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KDP’s Vice President Masrour Barzani in Zakho

Your vote, your decision will shape the way we govern our country for the next four years. Therefore, it is very necessary for all of us together with the neighbors, relatives and acquaintances to go to the polling station to vote

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region (Kurdistan 24) – On Monday, Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP)’s Vice President Masrour Barzani leads a major campaign rally in Zakho International Stadium as a part of the voting campaign for the 6th round of the Kurdistan Parliamentary general election.

KDP’s List 190 supporters have covered the whole place with KDP flags, slogans of prosperity, sacrifice, coexistence and endurance, as well as they cannot, KDP’s seal and Kurdistan flag.

The whole crowed very warmly and enthusiastically welcomed the Vice President Masrour Barzani, they also eagerly were listening to while delivering his speech.

The full transcript of the Vice President Masrour Barzani’s speech:

“In the name of God almighty and most compassionate

Dear our community in Zakho city, God’s greetings be upon you all. Your attendance here is the sign of KDP victory in the election, eshAllah-God willing.

Blessings Mashallah, I believe with such great gathering, elegant Zakho, HE President’s heart, with your support KDP wins in the next election is guaranteed.

In two weeks time, we are heading towards a fate determinative, that will determine our country’s future.

Your vote, your decision will shape the way we govern our country for the next four years. Therefore, it is very necessary for all of us together with the neighbors, relatives and acquaintances to go to the polling station to vote.

To make KDP List 190 win, the political party from the day of its formation till today to eliminate oppression and tyranny.

It also continues until today to protect the Kurdistan Region’s entity as well as the Kurdistan’ National identity, with God’s will also with your support, the Democratic Party from day one until today will carry on.

As much KDP tried to make Kurdistan triumph and to gain the rights of Kurdistan’s people, as KDP’s animosities tried to target KDP and make it not to win.

Before and now they stand against KDP in a way, did and set up plans, however, with God’s will, on October 20th, we will destroy their plan, and the KDP will become the first.

The KDP asks for security because it believes our people deserve to live a peaceful life and in a peaceful country.

We ask for reconciliation, and we ask to live together,

Because the more peace and security are in our country, the better KDP will progress and develop.

The KDP calls for prosperity, with actions, with actions, wherever KDP is, there is prosperity and development.

KDP requests for coexistence together with multi-nationalities, religions and political parties.

We believe, together our country will be more beautiful, we will be stronger.

For our nation to have a luckier and delighter future, KDP is always proud to support and advocate for all nations and religions’ rights.

Hereby, we keep our word and promise, and until we are alive, we advocate for every individual in this country.

KDP holds the motto of resistance because it’s been resistant to all conspiracies and attacks on Kurdistan.

The KDP owns many epics, thousand martyrs, hero Peshmergas and owns heroic people, thus it’s endured and resisted.

Also, always, forever, will be resisted and endured to defend the rights of Kurdistan’s nation.

Dear sisters and brothers, many attempts were made to destroy or weaken the entity of Kurdistan Region, this entity that is formed by martyrs’ blood, Peshmerga’s struggle and your hard work.

Many parties of today, ask for votes of Kurdistan’s people, it was yesterday and day before, they were planning for this entity to be eliminated.

It was yesterday and day before, put their hands in foreigners’ hands, it was yesterday and day before, tried to lose Kurdistan’s rights to Federal Government.

It was yesterday and day before, they made people defeated, but KDP didn’t do that, and didn’t allow it. Today they are coming forward under a different name, type and another way to talk to the nation.

Our people are aware, know the past of all of them, also know how to make the decision and to vote to who.

Our message to all the parties, to everyone who tried to break KDP, who dreamed of breaking the KDP, we tell them: to all the parties, tried to break the KDP, failed, learn the lesson, get to learn from your grown, history, get to know that KDP will not be broken.

If you look at other parties’ slogans, their slogans are not hopeful, none of them talk about coexistence, peace, prosperity and progress.

Their motto is we will eliminate it, stop it, destroy it, make it bad, spreading disappointment among our people. Our answer to all of them is ‘they cannot’

I have no doubt that they cannot because ownership is you-all and your votes will destroy their conspiracy.

They tried to stop the KDP before, they tried everything, in the past, even if it was harming them, just to harm KDP, they didn’t hesitate.

The motto they are holding today, all those parties who talk about destroying, halting, demolishing and ending, there is a truth in their slogans.

Those slogans show the true picture of these parties to the Kurdistan’s people, they all are that because there is no hope in those parties.

Those who say ‘we will demolish, destroy it, end it, what are they going to end?

The KDP has not come to power through coup d'etat nor foreigners’ efforts.

The KDP came to power through its own challenges, martyrs’ blood, Peshmergas’ hard work and the votes of its own people.

The KDP is the main political party, the majority of Kurdistan’s people are with KDP, however, those who are a small minority, a weak voice calling for the overthrow.

They must know that the KDP is a mountain that will never shake with their weak wind.

It is true that we have the majority votes from the Kurdistan’s people, but we have never said we will destroy it, overthrow it, we have never said we do not want other people.

We always extended a hand for peace to all other parties, most of the time for people’s interests and our country’s, we shared the power with others.

We gave in our own rights to other people, just to have a peaceful country, happy nation, to have our people live in peace, thus to have no differences among our nation.

We never claimed to have other people destroyed. The DKP and its goal have always been with prosperity, with progress, with making Kurdistan’s people happy.

The KDP will not be collapsed by anyone because the KDP is the history, today and future.

The KDP will not get destroyed and the entity of the Kurdistan Region will not be weakened because the Kurdistan’s people owned by KDP.

Kurdistan’s people own the entity of the Kurdistan Region, Peshmerga is the protector of this region, therefore no one or party should imagine nor tell to stand against this nation and Peshmerga, because they take their dream into the grave.

Therefore, no one should imagine that they will stand against this nation and the Peshmerga, because they will bury their dreams.

Although we often had the right to have more achievements for the KDP, but we accepted the partnership with other parties because we believe that the more we are together, the more we can serve our people.

To believe we are very concerned about other people, those who are wrong for whatever reason, any party that was able to convince people to deviate from the path on the wrong basis.

We are concerned about them too, because the KDP considers itself the owner of this entity. KDP consider itself a part from this nation, our hope is one day comes across them them to return to the patriotism and friendship with the KDP.

All those who campaign do not give any hope to Kurdistan’s people. Their only hope is to overthrow the KDP.

They do not say what they will do with it afterward, they destroy the country, what projects do they have, what achievements do they have, what future have they secured?

They have no plans, no achievements. They cannot talk about any achievements because they have no achievements.

We have done many things together. We thank all those who have been with us at different stages. They benefit from being with the KDP, and do not benefit from opposing the KDP.

If it was not KDP, the situation would not have been created today. If it was not for the KDP's hard work and heroism of the nation, these parties would not be able to campaign.

If it was not President Barzani's decision, there would be no talk about democracy, entity and the Kurdistan Region.

A party that failed and has not succeeded serving a part of Kurdistan, how can it demand ruling in Kurdistan today?

A failed person cannot govern, he has not been loyal to the heroes of that nation, he has not been loyal to the national history of that country.

How can he be loyal to that nation today? The party that sold the land yesterday will not protect it today.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/805236/kdps-vice-president-masrour-barzani-in-zakho-independent-administration-voting-campaign

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PM Barzani Inaugurates Highway Project

Masrour Barzani inaugurated the Spilk-Khalifan highway project, which has been completed at a cost of 64 billion Dinars

PM Barzani inaugurated the Spilk-Khalifan road and Khalifan project in the Soran Administration on Wednesday. He stated that this important project will help citizens move around, connect different areas, and make it easier for people to benefit in terms of safety and time reduction.

The Prime Minister emphasized that this initiative is part of the Kurdistan Regional Government's campaign to build and improve road quality.

“I congratulate the implementing company for completing the project in a very quick and advanced manner,” added the Kurdish Prime Minister.

He also acknowledged the Ministry of Reconstruction and Housing and its Minister for their enthusiasm, which has enabled the construction of roads in Kurdistan with high quality and advanced methods.

The Prime Minister stressed that efforts are underway to connect all provinces, cities, and villages, ensuring that citizens no longer face traffic problems. He mentioned that areas lacking roads and streets will be included in the development program.

The Kurdish leader laid the foundation stone for the project on September 15, 2022, and it is now complete. The road spans 8.5 kilometers, starting from the bends of Spilk road to the outskirts of Khalifan, and has been implemented at a cost of 64 billion Dinars.

The Spilk-Khalifan highway project is part of the main road between Erbil and Soran.

This project is one of 585 important road projects completed during the ninth cabinet. It is also part of the Hamilton Road, which connects the Haji Omeran border gate with Erbil province, and will contribute to the revival of the trade and tourism sector in the Soran Administration.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/862891

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Vice President Masrour Barzani Urges

Destruction of Drug Factories

Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) Vice President Masrour Barzani called for the destruction of drug factories and the elimination of money laundering during a speech on Wednesday as part of his party’s election campaign

Speaking at a large rally in the Soran Administration, VP Barzani emphasized dismantling facilities that manufacture illegal drugs as crucial to addressing the Region’s drug crisis.

“To eliminate corruption, those who launder money and take it out of the country by private plane must disappear,” the official stated, referring to the parties dominant in Sulaymaniyah province.

Addressing the crowd, he expressed satisfaction with the strong support for the KDP, saying, “People of Soran, I am happy to see that you have decided to win the KDP. We have gathered to make the final decision in the next elections and win the KDP list.”

The vice president also spoke on governance, vowing that the KDP is committed to ending corruption and ensuring that “the rule of thieves” is replaced with the “rule of law.”

His remarks come after a significant drug bust by Iraqi security forces in May, when a factory producing crystal methamphetamine was discovered in a security operation outside Sulaymaniyah. The raid, conducted with coordination from neighboring countries, led to the arrest of four individuals involved in international drug trafficking and the confiscation of 180 kilograms of narcotics.

Earlier this week, former Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) former co-chair Lahur Sheikh Jangi accused current PUK leaders of establishing an opium factory near Sulaymaniyah. Sheikh Jangi alleged that the factory was brought from Syria by a senior PUK official, falsely implicating innocent individuals, including a Peshmerga fighter.

He criticized the PUK leadership, saying, “Instead of creating job opportunities and hope for our youth, they have brought opium to this city.”

With parliamentary elections in the Kurdistan Region scheduled for October 20, political parties are intensifying their campaigns across the Region.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/862917

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US will monitor Kurdistan election

The United States is monitoring the Kurdistan Region election, the State Department spokesperson confirmed on Wednesday

“Staff volunteers from US mission Iraq will participate in observing the elections at polling sites across the IKR [Iraqi Kurdistan Region]. That's something we're doing in coordination with the United Nations, international election experts,” spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a press briefing.

“We are in close contact with Iraq's Independent High Electoral Commission, as well as the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq, as they ensure that election preparation meets key milestones,” he added.

The Kurdistan Region will go to the polls to elect a new parliament on October 20.

“Elections are a vital element of the democratic process. We support all efforts to ensure they are free, fair and transparent and occur without further disruption or delay,” Miller said.

“And we commend the active participation of civil society and the media for supporting political discourse and raising awareness around issues of importance to Iraqi Kurdistan Region residents in the lead up to these elections,” he added.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/world/09102024

If they want a free, fair and transparent election Bafel Talabani and his party of crooks should be banned

[Anthea]

KDP ends boycott of Nineveh council meetings

The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and a Sunni Arab alliance ended their months-long boycott of the Nineveh provincial council meetings and took part in sessions again, a KDP member said on Thursday

“The KDP faction has ended its boycott and attended Tuesday’s meeting because it was related to the issue of public service. It will attend council meetings from now on,” Bashar Kiki, former Nineveh provincial council chief and Iraqi MP, told Rudaw.

Changes in the positions of mayors and district mayors will be put on hold until the issue is fully resolved, according to the KDP’s Kiki.

The Nineveh provincial council is made up of two blocs. On one side is the Nineveh People Union Alliance, including the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) and Shiite parties affiliated with the Iran-backed Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), and on the other side is the United Nineveh Coalition, composed of the KDP and Sunni parties.

Both sides have been at odds over a decision to replace several mayors and district mayors in a July 2 council meeting that the United Nineveh Coalition boycotted.

The KDP has four seats in the 29-seat council and the PUK has two.

Ahmad Abd Raba, a member of the council, told Rudaw that the United Nineveh Coalition will attend council meetings related to the services in the province and “not other political issues.”

“Tuesday’s meeting was about services, so we participated because without us it is impossible to vote on important projects,” he said.

Iraq held its long-overdue provincial council elections in December in its provinces, excluding the Kurdistan Region. Nineveh, one of Iraq’s multi-ethnic provinces and home to the Yazidi community, saw a 52 percent turnout at the polls.

In February, council members elected Sunni politician Abdulqadir al-Dakhil as governor of the province. Days later, the KDP’s Sirwan Rozhbayani was elected as deputy governor in another vote following lengthy talks.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeast/iraq/10102024

[Anthea]

President Barzani receives US congressman

Kurdistan President Nechirvan Barzani received United States Congressman Seth Moulton on Friday in Erbil for a discussion on a range of topics, including the upcoming parliamentary election

President Barzani thanked the congressman for Washington’s support. Moulton said that Congress “will continue supporting the Kurdistan Region as a friend,” according to a statement from the Kurdistan Region Presidency.

They discussed the Kurdistan Region’s October 20 legislative election, Erbil-Baghdad relations, Peshmerga reforms, and the latest developments in the Middle East, according to the statement.

Moulton, who serves on the House Armed Services Committee, was also received by Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani.

“We discussed KR-US ties, progress with Peshmerga reforms, and regional developments,” PM Barzani said in a post on X.

Moulton told PM Barzani that the Kurdistan Region is a trusted friend and partner of the US and highlighted the importance of supporting the Peshmerga, according to a statement from the Kurdistan Region Government (KRG).

They also discussed the resumption of Kurdistan Region’s oil exports, which have been suspended since March last year following an arbitration case between Turkey and Iraq.

The US has provided the Peshmerga with several rounds of military aid over the years, most recently in August.

The Peshmerga played a significant role in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS). The US-led global coalition has provided the Kurdish force with a range of weapons, though Kurds have criticized Baghdad for blocking the delivery of some military aid, including drones.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/kurdistan/111020244