The Kurdistan region belongs to "the Kurdistani people"

[Anthea]

Census in Disputed Territories

Kurdistan’s Board for Disputed Territories has raised concerns about the upcoming Iraq’s general census, particularly in the disputed areas

The board announced it will hold a meeting with Kurdish political parties in Erbil on Thursday to discuss the census process in the disputed territories and share its concerns.

In a statement on Wednesday, the board noted that the census is scheduled for November 20, 2024. However, they expressed apprehensions about the process and skepticism regarding the intentions of the Iraqi federal government.

“Article 140 of the Iraqi constitution has not been implemented. We have had a bitter experience with the census in the past, and its negative impacts on Kurdistan,”

The board highlighted that the Ministry of Planning and the Kurdistan Regional Statistical Board have been working diligently to remove political influence from the census process.

Additionally, the board called for unity among relevant parties to ensure the return of displaced persons and residents from other cities in the Kurdistan Region

Earlier this year, Fahmi Burhan, head of the Kurdistan Region’s Board for Disputed Territories, warned that Kirkuk’s demographics are changing, with new neighborhoods emerging and altering the identity of the disputed Kurdish province.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/860833

[Anthea]

Kurdish Leaders Urge Unity Against Extremism

On the occasion of the 54th anniversary of the establishment of the Union of Islamic Scholars of Kurdistan, Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani, president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), released a statement calling on the union to play a more influential role in strengthening unity and the culture of coexistence in the Kurdistan Region

The Kurdish leader also stated that the establishment of the Union by the late Mustafa Barzani emphasized the role and position of Islamic religious teachers in their participation in the national struggle and in upholding authenticity, religious values, and the culture of coexistence in Kurdish society.

“I always expect religious scholars and teachers to play their influential role in strengthening the sense of patriotism, human values, unity, coexistence, and raising awareness among the masses,” Barzani added in the statement.

The Kurdistan Islamic Scholars Union, founded in 1970, has been instrumental in fostering religious understanding and harmony throughout the region, playing a crucial role in bridging divides and promoting coexistence among diverse communities.

Meanwhile, Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has issued a message on the occasion of the 54th anniversary of the establishment of the Union of Islamic Religious Scholars of Kurdistan.

“We respect the role of the Union of Religious Scholars and hope that they will continue to work to strengthen the principles of tolerance, mutual acceptance, and peaceful coexistence among all communities in Kurdistan,” noted PM Barzani.

The Kurdish Primer also highlighted the vital importance of the Union’s efforts in countering extremism, hatred, and violence, urging a united approach against these destructive forces.

He emphasized that a collaborative stance is essential in promoting peace and stability in the region.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/861077

[Anthea]

Importance of Constitution

Kurdistan Prime Minister Masrour Barzani highlighted key issues between the Kurdistan Government (KRG) and the Iraqi federal government, emphasizing the need for adherence to the Iraqi constitution to resolve longstanding disputes

Speaking to Al-Arabiya TV, PM Barzani expressed optimism about improved relations with the Iraqi government under Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani but noted that challenges remain. He underscored the importance of recognizing the Kurdish issue's historical roots, advocating for a partnership in Iraq that respects both Kurdish and Arab identities.

He emphasized that problems between Erbil and Baghdad go beyond salaries and oil, citing deeper issues tied to national identity, disputed territories, and the constitutional rights of Kurdistan. He reiterated the need for the constitution to serve as the ultimate guide in defining relations between the federal government and the KRG.

He also expressed concerns over the suspension of oil exports, stating that this has resulted in significant financial losses, exceeding $19 billion, with most of the impact falling on the Region. PM Barzani highlighted ongoing negotiations to address the real cost of oil extraction, emphasizing that reaching an agreement would benefit Iraq as a whole and enable the resumption of oil exports from Kurdistan.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/861111

[Anthea]

Barzani, Russian CG Discuss Elections

Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani, president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), met with Maxim Rubin, Consul General of Russia in Erbil, in Pirmam on Saturday to discuss regional developments and the upcoming Kurdistan Region election

The meeting addressed the political situation and the latest developments in the region, as well as the Kurdistan parliamentary elections scheduled for October 20.

Relations between the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Iraqi federal government were also discussed, along with the positive results of President Barzani’s recent visit to Baghdad, according to an official statement from Barzani’s headquarters.

The meeting also highlighted the historical relations and friendship between the Kurdish people and the Russian people, as well as the significant stages of this relationship.

The Russian Consul General in Erbil emphasized that the friendship and relations between the two sides will continue.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/861092

[Anthea]

Security Measures for Elections

Kurdistan Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed announced on Saturday detailed security plans for the parliamentary elections scheduled for October 20, 2024, emphasizing that any candidate who engages in campaigning with weapons will face legal and financial consequences

Speaking to BasNews, Ahmed highlighted the Kurdistan Government's (KRG) commitment to ensuring a peaceful and organized election process across all cities and districts. He mentioned that a high-level security committee, involving police, Asayish, Peshmerga, and the electoral commission, has been established to coordinate efforts and maintain a calm environment for voting.

The Minister assured that despite political differences, the security situation in the Region remains stable, and all efforts will be made to protect polling stations and voters. He reiterated that the electoral process is a democratic one and urged candidates and political parties to avoid using weapons during campaigning, warning that violations will be met with strict legal action.

The KRG is committed to working closely with political parties to ensure adherence to election guidelines, and Ahmed expressed optimism that the elections will proceed smoothly, contributing to the democratic process and governance of Kurdistan.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/861133

The evil, traitorous Bafel Talabani should NOT be allowed to participate

[Anthea]

Dream of 30 years

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region (Kurdistan 24) – On Monday, and following Prime Minister, Masrour Barzani’s recommendation, and under Duhok’s Governor, Ali Tatar, set the cornerstone of a plan to reconstruct also expand the road from Gali Balnda to Sida Bridge

The road is located in Nerwa, Rekan, Doski Zhuri and Walatzherye, within the District of Amedi. The project will be operated by Kavin Group with a budget of more than 24 billion dinars and a length 14 thousand kilometers road.

“The battle between PKK and the Turkish army didn’t allow to rebuild the region of Nerwa, Rekan, Doski Zhuri and Walatzerye, for more than 30 years, so setting the cornerstone and reconstructing were a dream for us” In his speech at the ceremony on Monday, Tatar stated “electricity lines will be provided for the road and the region will be well protected in term of security”

"Laying the foundation stone of the project is the first stage of the reconstruction of the region: Nerwa, Rekan, Doski Zhuri and Walatzherye” He added.

After 1991, due to the conflict between the PKK and Turkish army, the region of Amedi and other areas around in Kurdistan Region have not been rebuilt and many villages have not been rebuilt.

Hundreds of other villages were evacuated due to the ongoing fighting between PKK and Turkish army, which became obstacles on Kurdistan Regional Government’s way to rebuilding the area and provide services

The Governor of Duhok called on the armed groups, to leave the region and as he said, “PKK’s fight, in the district of Amedi, will not change anything in the internal, external or regional equations, therefore we ask them to leave our region, so the indigenous can return to their homeland”

Following Kurdistan Regional Government Prime Minister’s recommendation, confirmed by the Governor of Duhok “more than 25 billion dinars have been allocated for the implementation of a number of public serving projects in Amedi District” He added “the projects will be implemented in the next two weeks”

According to the Governor’s speech, the projects of the ninth cabinet for Amedi District are:

In 2020, 85 serving projects

In 2021: 18 serving projects

In 2022: 94 serving projects

In 2023: Projects implementation continues

In 2024: More than $57 billion has been spent on projects

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/36 ... t-in-Amedi

[Anthea]

Peaceful election campaign

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani released a video message on Tuesday, marking the start of the campaign for the sixth session of the Kurdistan Region Parliamentary election. He urged all political parties to conduct a peaceful, civilized campaign and to present programs that reflect the expectations and trust of the Kurdish people.

Kurdistan Region President Barzani emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful atmosphere among competing parties, stating that while differences in policies and programs are inevitable, there must be no room for spreading hatred. “The goals of the Kurdistan Region are significant, and though there may be ideological conflicts, the campaign must remain peaceful,” he said. He encouraged political parties to criticize constructively and propagate their policies freely.

Highlighting the need for inclusivity, Barzani stressed the importance of protecting women and promoting their candidacy in the parliamentary elections. “This is a vital criterion for the Kurdistan Region,” he added.

He reminded the parties that they are political competitors, not enemies, noting that they all share a common Kurdish identity. “It is our collective duty to work together and ensure a peaceful, democratic process,” he said.

The President also underscored the significance of electing a strong parliament, viewing it as a crucial opportunity to enhance the democratic system, reinforce institutions, and advance reforms. Additionally, he emphasized the role of the election in protecting the Kurdistan Region, implementing the federal system, and ensuring the constitutional rights of the Kurdish people.

The Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) of Iraq has approved the candidacy of 1,191 individuals for the upcoming Kurdistan parliamentary elections, scheduled for October 20. The announcement was made on Tuesday by IHEC spokesperson Jumana al-Ghalai, in an interview with Kurdistan24.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/36 ... n-campaign

Bafel Talabani should NOT be allowed to take part in the election as he ILLEGALLY took control of the PUK

[Anthea]

Barzani Calls for Unity

Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani, president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), delivered a call for unity during the launch of his party's campaign ahead of the Region’s parliamentary elections set for October 20

Speaking in Erbil, Barzani urged all Kurdish parties to work together to form a unified government and military force following the election. He stressed the importance of having "one parliament, one government, and one Peshmerga force" to strengthen the Kurdistan Region's stability and safeguard its autonomy.

Barzani also addressed intra-Kurdish competition, emphasizing that the KDP remains unwavering in its commitment to the legacy of the Region's martyrs and the sacrifices made for Kurdish autonomy.

"The KDP is the party of martyrs, responsible for their blood. Our party has one decision, one path," the Kurdish leader said, adding that past attempts to divide the party's leadership have failed.

He extended an olive branch to rival parties, encouraging collaboration and cautioning that opposition to the KDP would not yield success. "If one party thinks it will gain something by opposing the KDP, it should learn from history," he noted.

Barzani's speech emphasized peace and restraint during the election period, urging supporters to avoid violence and provocative rhetoric. He reminded party members and supporters that not responding to provocations can also be a response.

"Too often, not responding irresponsibly is a response," he said, adding that any necessary responses should be directed through official channels like the Election Commission.

Barzani's KDP, which has long dominated the political landscape of the Kurdistan Region, aims to secure significant gains in the upcoming elections, bolstered by a platform centered on Kurdish dignity, Peshmerga support, and the legacy of its martyrs.

The October 20 elections are viewed as critical to shaping the future of the Kurdistan Region as it navigates challenges both from within and from external powers

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/861543

[Anthea]

Importance of Voter Participation

Masrour Barzani, Kurdistan Prime Minister and Vice President of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), met on Thursday with key figures from Erbil to discuss the significance of the upcoming parliamentary elections scheduled for October 20

PM Barzani emphasized that the election's outcomes will have a direct impact on all citizens, urging them to actively participate. "Any decision made in the elections will affect us all. We must engage in a frank discourse," he stated, adding that choosing not to vote is still a decision, as it allows others to make choices on behalf of non-voters.

He highlighted the crucial role these elections play in shaping the future of the Kurdistan Region, describing them as a decisive moment for governance and maintaining the Region's status. He expressed optimism for Kurdistan's future, envisioning it as one of the most developed regions in the world, while also acknowledging the challenges ahead.

The Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) of Iraq has approved the candidacy of 1,191 individuals for the elections, reflecting a robust democratic process in the region. PM Barzani called for unity and active participation from all citizens to ensure a prosperous future for Kurdistan.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/861663

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KDP Committed to Minority Rights

Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) Vice President Masrour Barzani has highlighted the importance of strengthening coexistence and safeguarding the rights of diverse communities in Kurdistan

The Kurdish leader, who also serves as the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, made these remarks during a meeting with members of the Christian Alliance in Erbil on Sunday.

In his address, VP Barzani acknowledged the significant contributions of Chaldeans, Assyrians, and Armenians, affirming their integral role in Kurdistan's social fabric

“We all own this country together,” he stated, emphasizing the shared responsibility among the Region's diverse groups. He reiterated the KDP’s commitment to protecting the rights of these communities and upholding the principles of coexistence.

He noted the KDP's long-standing role as a defender of minority rights and assured that under its leadership, the values of unity and cooperation would continue to flourish. "Thanks to the KDP, the principles of coexistence in Kurdistan will be strengthened, and the rights of communities will be protected," the senior official added.

The Christian Alliance expressed appreciation for the KDP’s unwavering support, commending both Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani, president of the KDP, and Vice President Masrour Barzani for their leadership in defending community rights against any attempts to undermine them.

This meeting reinforced the KDP's position as a champion of diversity, underscoring its ongoing efforts to promote harmony and inclusion for all ethnic and religious groups in Kurdistan.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/861872

[Anthea]

Voting for KDP Means Choosing Stability

Vice President of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), Masrour Barzani, met with professionals and traders in Erbil on Sunday. During the meeting, he delivered a speech emphasizing that the people can be the decision-makers in determining the future governance of the Kurdistan Region

The KDP Vice President stated that voting for the KDP means voting for security, stability, and prosperity in the Kurdistan Region.

“Everyone knows the history of the KDP, and I respect all political parties. I would like to remind you of some events that will influence your decision-making. Everyone who believes in democracy, justice, stability, and the protection of the dignity of Kurdistan will have a place within the KDP. The KDP has become a liberation movement for our entire people, and everyone can continue their struggle under its umbrella,” he said.

"The KDP is a tent where every Kurd can continue their struggle under its protection. When Kurdistan is attacked, the KDP has always been and will continue to be the vanguard of defense," PM Barzani added.

"Let no one be deceived by slogans. I don't want to make promises; I want to remind you of what we have done. The KDP has never made a promise it has not fulfilled. Where the KDP dominates, there is prosperity. Wherever the KDP rules, prosperity will increase day by day," he noted.

"The KDP has played a major role in the victory of the Kurdish people's will over all enemies of Kurdistan," he promised.

"The KDP is not willing to sacrifice the people for a single day; rather, it has always sacrificed itself for the Kurdish people and will continue to do so," the Prime Minister emphasized.

The Kurdistan Region parliamentary election campaign started on September 25 and will continue until October 15, before the election takes place on October 20.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/861923

[Anthea]

KDP to be Victorious in Elections

Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) Vice President Masrour Barzani delivered a stirring speech to a gathering of youth, students, and women, emphasizing the party’s resilience and achievements in the face of challenges

With the elections approaching, Vice Presidential Barzani stated, “God willing, we will achieve the greatest victory in this election.”

He highlighted the KDP’s track record, asserting that no other party has accomplished as much as the KDP has. He addressed the recent criticism from opposing parties, stating, “To those attacking the KDP, whether for a campaign or any reason, there are lines you cannot cross because you will need us tomorrow.”

The KDP leader highlighted the party’s strength and perseverance, noting that despite facing attacks and threats, the KDP has always stood firm. “We are proud to be resilient to all challenges, dangers, and attacks, carrying the slogan of resistance,” the official said. He reminded opponents that without the KDP, the region’s stability would be at risk.

In a direct message to other parties, the Kurdish leader emphasized their inability to match the KDP’s achievements. “They ask what we have done for the Kurdistan Region, for the Peshmerga, for water resources — our response is simple: You can’t.”

VP Barzani recounted past attempts by rival factions to weaken or eliminate the KDP, which ultimately failed. He credited the party’s leadership and the Peshmerga for defending the Kurdistan Region and preserving its dignity. He stressed that only the people, through their vote on October 20, could decide the future of Kurdistan.

In a passionate appeal to voters, the KDP official called on them to protect the Kurdistan Region from forces that would bring harm. He emphasized the importance of preserving the legacy of the martyrs, the Peshmerga’s honor, and the region’s progress. He urged the people to vote for the KDP to ensure construction, progress, hope, and a better future for all.

“For the pride of the country, for the glory of the Peshmerga, for the memory of the martyrs, for development and science, and for a brighter future, vote for the Kurdistan Democratic Party,” he concluded.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/862252

[Anthea]

Artists join race for Kurdistan parliament

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Several prominent artists and intellectuals have entered the Kurdistan parliamentary election race, campaigning with promises to restore the prominence of Kurdish culture and support artists

The actress Rupak Abdulqadir is a candidate for The People’s Front (Baray Gal) party.

“We will work on bringing back the glory of artists and original Kurdish art,” she said, explaining her intent to focus on introducing laws that support the arts.

The People’s Front was founded by Lahur Talabany in January. A former, much loved, co-leader of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), he was formally ousted from that post in late 2021 by the traitor Bafel Talabani. (if you do not remember what the traitor Bafel did to destroy Kurdistan's bid for freedom after the referendum then you should be ashamed of yourself)

“Art belongs to all Kurdish people. We artists have served the mother language and the people of Kurdistan with our art,” said Rekesh Seirani, a singer running for the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) in Duhok.

This is the first regional election that divides the Kurdistan Region into four constituencies after Iraq’s federal court ruled in February that Article 9 of the constitution, which designated the Kurdistan Region as a single electoral constituency, was "unconstitutional." The four constituencies are the provinces of Erbil, Sulaimani, Duhok, and Halabja.

“I believe that native artists will receive native votes,” said Farhang Ghafur, a KDP candidate and head of Erbil’s culture directorate.

Hardi Salah, a singer from the PUK who has been involved in politics for several years, is also running.

“The parliament must protect the glory of artists and create an environment where they have a good financial situation and do not have to diminish the quality of their art for the sake of making money,” said Bukhari Jamil, the only artist running for the Kurdistan Islamic Union (KIU). “I want to return hope to them.”

Writer and painter Farhad Pirbal is running as an independent candidate. He holds a doctorate in the history of Kurdish literature from Sorbonne University in Paris. He has been a lecturer at Salahaddin University since 1994 and has authored dozens of books and poems.

He is campaigning on a promise to put power into the hands of the people. “I will dissolve the parliament: instead of parties, I will bring the people into the parliament,” he wrote in a recent post on Facebook.

In March 2018, Pirbal was arrested on charges of defaming a Turkmen member of the Kurdistan parliament. His family later issued a statement apologizing for “his inappropriate and unfair behavior,” attributing his comments to “psychological problems and drug addiction.”

Voters will go to the polls on October 20. Official campaigning began last week and continues until October 15. Nearly 2.9 million people are eligible to vote.

A total of 1,191 candidates are vying for the 100-seat Kurdistan parliament, according to the Iraqi High Electoral Commission (IHEC). That number includes 823 men, 368 women, and 38 candidates from minority communities. Among them are six artists.

In the 2018 election, the KDP won 45 seats, the PUK secured 21, while the Change Movement (Gorran) took 12 seats. The KIU won 5 seats.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/kurdistan/021020243

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US to send 103 to monitor Kurdistan elections

The United States will send a team of 103 observers to monitor the Kurdistan Region’s upcoming parliamentary elections, an election monitor said, and other countries are also expected to send observers

US are bullies who want to control every other country. The world would be a lot happier and a lot safer if Americans remained in the US

“Over 480 people have been registered as observers for the sixth Kurdistan parliamentary elections, of which 103 are Americans,” Hogr Chato, head of the Shams Network for Monitoring Elections, told Rudaw on Tuesday.

Countries such as Russia, Turkey, Germany, and the United Kingdom have also requested to observe the elections, according to Chato: “Canada and France are expected to follow suit and also send their observers for the process.”

The Kurdistan Region’s citizens will head to the polls on October 20 to vote in the long-awaited parliamentary elections, more than two years since they were initially scheduled to take place.

The electoral process has faced numerous challenges, with interference from Baghdad exacerbating tensions between the Kurdistan Region’s political parties, particularly the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) which does NOT have a legal leader since the traitor Bafel destroyed the party leadership.

A total of 1,191 candidates are vying for the 100-seat Kurdistan parliament, according to the Iraqi High Electoral Commission (IHEC). 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, for eligible voters.

Early voting for security forces and internally displaced persons (IDPs) is scheduled for October 18, while the general vote will take place on October 20. An estimated 215,000 people are eligible to participate in the early voting.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/kurdistan/02102024

[Anthea]

Lawsuit Against KRG Dismissed

US Federal Judge Randolph Moss on Wednesday, October 2, dismissed a lawsuit filed against Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, his family, and 63 others

The case was thrown out after Judge Moss ruled that the allegations lacked merit, warning the plaintiffs of severe consequences if they continued to make baseless claims.

The plaintiffs, led by an individual with a criminal conviction in Germany, accused PM Barzani and others of misconduct. However, the court found no substantial evidence to support the claims. In a stern message, Judge Moss stated that further attempts to misuse the judicial system for unfounded accusations would result in significant penalties.

The legal team representing the KRG’s US office described the lawsuit as a politically motivated attack timed to influence the upcoming KRG parliamentary elections. They argued that the lawsuit was an abuse of the court system intended to undermine the Prime Minister and the KRG’s leadership on the eve of a critical election period.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/862334

Who illegally took control of the PUK, who works with criminals, one name springs to mind BAFEL