The Evolving Political Dynamics in the Kurdistan Region: What to Expect over the next Four Years?
The dialogue between Bafel Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), and Dlawar Ala’Aldeen, President of the Middle East Research Institute (MERI), took place at a crucial moment—just a week after the Kurdistan Region’s general elections and before negotiations for government formation commenced. At this time, the people of the Kurdistan Region sought clarity on the policies and direction of the ruling parties. The following is a summary of the key points articulated by Bafel Talabani:
- Bafel Talabani, Leader, Patriotic Union of Kurdistan
- Dlawer Ala’Aldeen, President of MERI (Moderator)
- The election campaign was highly strategic, focusing on keeping opponents on the defensive. PUK engaged voters and restored faith in democracy, encouraging participation regardless of party preference. This approach increased voter turnout and strengthened PUK’s position, while many rivals lacked a clear strategy, making them vulnerable and forcing mid-campaign adjustments.
- PUK’s vote share has increased by 92% since democratic elections began, making it one of the few parties in Iraq and Kurdistan to see consistent growth. The party also solidified its support in traditionally weaker areas, such as Halabja, Darbandikhan, Ranya, and Garmian. Over the past two years, leadership restructuring has laid a strong foundation for political progress.
- The shifting political landscape is evident in the decline of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), which dropped from 56 seats. PUK remains ready for political dialogue but is also prepared to govern without certain factions. Cooperation between parties is now more necessary than ever, with PUK, KDP and opposition parties, including Islamic parties, holding significant weight.
- A strong opposition is crucial for democracy, but transitioning from opposition to governance is challenging. Gorran (Change), once a vocal critic of the government, struggled to deliver on its promises after entering office. Similarly, new opposition parties like New Generation will eventually face the same test—how long can they make promises without participating in governance? PUK believes that real political change must come from within the system rather than from the outside.
- Regarding government formation, PUK remains open to dialogue but is studying the situation carefully. Some smaller parties feel betrayed, particularly in Baghdad, and PUK supports their concerns. Meanwhile, KDP and others continue to rely on outdated political tactics. Trust in PUK has grown over the past two and a half years, and with each election, the party gains momentum. Politics is a process that builds over time, and the current trajectory suggests that PUK is on the rise.
- Previous general elections lacked strategy, unity, and clear programs. Many parties did not even have a manifesto. However, PUK has since adopted a more structured approach. Some parties continue to rely on outdated and ineffective tactics, failing to adapt to the evolving political landscape. In politics, one must evolve or be left behind.
- The political process requires patience, but its direction is clear. KDP now reaches out to various parties, including the Islamists, in an attempt to form alliances. While some figures remain difficult to work with, others are willing to engage. PUK is transparent about its politics and principles, hoping these discussions lead to productive outcomes.
- We would prefer to form a government immediately, as we have a clear program and commitments to the people. However, a coalition government must be formed properly. If certain parties want to govern alone, they should do so based on their own strength rather than expecting others to carry the burden. PUK has legitimate concerns about governance, including the misuse of government institutions, threats, and corruption. While we are open to agreements, we will never compromise on the rights of the people or our core principles.
- Kurdistan faces serious structural issues. Trust in leadership has eroded, and activists are unfairly labelled as threats. The absence of strong institutions is a major problem—governance is centered around individuals rather than systems. Judges should not be influenced by political figures, and the rule of law must be respected. This is not the 1990s when media was limited. Today, with technology connecting people globally, the public is more informed than ever. This election broke the culture of fear, a significant achievement. While some parties, including PUK, may face challenges due to this shift, it is a necessary step forward.
- Governance in Kurdistan has had ups and downs. Some previous cabinets showed improvement, but the current government is the worst in recent history—not due to individuals, but because of a flawed mentality. The belief that certain parties could be side-lined has proven to be a mistake. Moving forward, we must form a government based on partnership, not rivalry. PUK has always prioritized the public interest, willing to make sacrifices for the greater good. However, those who underestimate PUK will realize it is not only a loyal friend but also a formidable opponent.
- The lack of transparency in Kurdistan’s oil and financial sectors is a major issue. No one truly knows how oil is bought and sold or where the money goes—not even the Minister of Finance. The Kurdistan budget has not been properly presented to parliament, raising serious concerns. Corruption and secrecy, not open discussion, threaten Kurdish unity. Every country has made mistakes, but progress comes from acknowledging and fixing them.
- PUK has always believed in standing up to these issues rather than making endless concessions. Experience has shown that the more concessions we make, the more demands follow. Instead of avoiding difficult conversations for fear of “destroying Kurdistan,” we must confront them head-on. No one is infallible. Admitting mistakes and striving to do better each day is the only way forward.
- We have developed a detailed reform plan called the Kurdistan 2030 project, aimed at addressing long-standing governance issues. This includes reforms in oil and gas, security, political relations, and institutional restructuring. Our focus is on serving the people, especially those who have been neglected. The tax system is broken—big companies avoid taxes while small business owners, like bakers, are forced to pay. Students lack financial support, and retired Peshmergas are denied their rightful pensions. Comprehensive financial reform, particularly in the Ministry of Finance, is a core part of PUK’s vision.
- KDP attempted to divert attention by creating distractions, hoping to entangle PUK leaders in minor issues. This revealed their lack of a real plan—they relied on old tactics like distributing money and land, using government resources to serve party interests rather than the public. No government should be used as a political tool.
- Kurdistan’s political landscape is imbalanced. Some parties hold onto power through numbers rather than capability. Even institutions like the police force face unfair treatment—graduates in Duhok deserve recognition, yet they are not granted full status as academic graduates. Instead of fostering unity, policies are designed to weaken certain forces. This does not build a strong Kurdistan; it deepens divisions. If we truly want unity, we must change this system and prioritize fairness, accountability, and genuine reform.
- PUK is ready to cooperate with anyone who shares our vision—to remove the influence of political interests and serve our nation. Our goal is to establish institutions we can take pride in—a real parliament, real ministers who have authority over their own departments, not security agencies dictating their decisions. Corruption is blatant, and it is time to change that.
- PUK has its own project, and we are ready to move forward—whether others join us or not. But it is better for all of us if we do it together. If not, it will turn into a contest of power, driven by money and threats. That will not benefit anyone. Despite everything, I remain optimistic. I travelled across Kurdistan during this election and saw young people engaged in politics. Compared to 2018, our support has grown, and voter turnout has increased everywhere. The more people engage in the political process, the better the outcome for all parties.
- To all political groups: we are not here to destroy, but to build. We want to fix things. We want to work together. But do not force us into a corner. No one knows how to dismantle a system better than we do. If you need proof, just look at all the microphones I’ve broken over the years.
You can watch the full text and video in Kurdish here.
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The Evolving Political Dynamics in the Kurdistan Region: What to Expect over the next Four Years?