Statement by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Iraqi federal elections

I have been humbled by the peaceful turnout in today’s federal parliamentary elections. I want to thank everyone who turned out to vote in today’s democratic process, from the Kurdistan Region, the disputed territories and Iraq as a whole. Your vote reflects more than a civic duty – it is a solemn call to defend the rights of the Kurdistani people within the Iraqi Constitution.

Tonight, I have spoken with Prime Minister Mustafa Kadhimi to congratulate him on his promise to hold early elections. We emphasised the importance of investigating every and all violations and complaints. Every vote counts. He and I also agreed that trust in the country’s political process depends on timely and transparent investigations. I am confident he will continue to serve the country in this transition period until a new government has been appointed, and I have assured him of our continued support.

I am concerned by reports that armed groups operating outside of the law prevented locals from voting in the disputed territories. This is unacceptable and a clear violation of the democratic right to vote in free and fair elections.

My heartfelt appreciation goes to our Peshmerga and the police for the permissive atmosphere they guaranteed for voters, candidates, observers and monitors in this campaign. They are our heroes and without them peaceful elections like today’s could not take place. I also want to thank the Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) for its hard work to deliver these elections on time despite reports of technical setbacks that cost votes.

Now that the ballot boxes have closed, I urge the successful candidates and the political parties to put aside their differences, champion unity, focus on the needs and rights of the Kurdistani people and strengthen the status of the Kurdistan Region in Baghdad. When appropriate, I will engage with all the parties to ensure stability; I look forward to working with them to defend Kurdistani rights in Baghdad.

Masrour Barzani