Iraqi Kurdistan struggles to form new government

Attempts to form a new government in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region have made no progress as the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) fail to come to an agreement on leadership roles following parliamentary elections on October 20th, The New Arab reported on January 29th.

The political deadlock between the KDP and PUK has fuelled uncertainty over the region’s governance and worsened public frustration amid ongoing economic challenges.

The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) have co-governed the Kurdistan Region of Iraq since it became semi-autonomous in 1991. The results of the October 20th election renewed the joint administration between the two parties.

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The Kurdistan Parliament held its inaugural session for the sixth term on December 3rd, but lawmakers failed to elect a speaker, two deputies, and a secretary—roles that are imperative to formal parliamentary operations.

A regional president has yet to be elected due to the failure of having these roles filled. However, once the president is elected, they can task the KDP with forming a new government.

The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) which won 39 seats, aims to retain control of both the presidency and the premiership, which is currently held by Nechirvan Barzani and Masrour Barzani from the renowned Barzani family. On the other hand, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), who won 23 seats, is pushing for a more balanced distribution of power, including control over key ministries, including the Interior Ministry.

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The deadlock on decision-making has worsened economic issues in the Kurdistan Region. Public sector workers such as teachers, have gone on strike over late salary payments, urging the KRG to give them their December wages. Additionally, essential services remain under pressure, increasing anger among residents.

Observers say that continued political and economic instability could ruin the stability of the Iraqi Kurdistan Region.

The New Arab