Kurdish election campaigns 2025 are intensifying as the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) and Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) hold rallies across disputed and neglected areas. Both parties promised more services and protection for local communities ahead of Iraq’s parliamentary elections.
On Saturday, the KDP organized a rally in Sheikhan, a contested district in Nineveh and spiritual home to the Yazidis. The town also hosts Kurdish, Christian, and Muslim populations. KDP deputy leader Nechirvan Barzani addressed the crowd, pledging that his party will continue to support all communities.
“There is much more in our agenda to do for Sheikhan,” Barzani said. He emphasized efforts to curb migration and help Christian communities remain on their ancestral lands. He also highlighted interfaith cooperation, noting the presence of Muslim, Christian, and Yazidi leaders at the rally.
Nineveh remains a critical electoral battleground, with 34 parliamentary seats contested by Kurdish, Sunni, and Shiite candidates. Kurdish parties have historically dominated, but Shiite parties now aim to expand influence. The KDP hopes to secure one million votes nationwide. It fields 175 candidates, including 61 in Nineveh, aiming to maintain its strong parliamentary presence.
Barzani added, “The party’s strength in Baghdad is the strength of Kurdistan.” He stressed the importance of federalism and constitutional implementation, arguing that Iraq has suffered for twenty years due to delays and legal failures.
Meanwhile, the PUK campaigned in Koya, Erbil province, criticizing the lack of services and neglect in certain areas. PUK leader Bafel Talabani vowed that the party would not join a regional government without guarantees for equitable treatment of all cities. His message emphasized fairness and unity, targeting areas along the KDP-PUK divide.
Talabani stressed the importance of Kurdistan’s representation in Baghdad. He highlighted partnerships with Kurdish parties in Syria, Iran, and Turkey, as well as strong ties with Baghdad-based Shiite political groups. “Decisions about major projects are made in Baghdad. We need to secure your rights there,” he said.
The PUK and KDP remain in discussions to form the next Kurdistan Regional Government cabinet, more than a year after regional elections. Both parties present competing visions for the region, balancing federal ambitions with local responsibilities.
In conclusion, Kurdish election campaigns 2025 underline regional tensions, contested areas, and promises to provide equitable services. Both parties aim to secure influence in Baghdad and protect local communities while appealing to voters across Kurdistan. The November elections will test whether these campaigns translate into tangible political results.
Ultimately, Kurdish election campaigns 2025 reveal the interplay between local needs and federal decision-making, highlighting the ongoing competition between PUK and KDP for regional and national power.
