Iraq’s Kurdish region goes to the polls with a flagging economy and political infighting top of mind

Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdish region held long-awaited parliamentary elections amidst economic instability, political rivalries, and ongoing disputes with Baghdad. The major parties competing in these elections are the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), which have historically dominated the region’s political scene. The elections faced multiple delays due to disagreements over election laws, yet the KDP emerged victorious, signaling continued political fragmentation. Economic challenges remain a pressing concern for voters, with issues such as delayed salary payments for civil servants and budget cuts from the central government exacerbating public dissatisfaction. Voter discontent is deepened by widespread corruption allegations against political leaders, prompting calls for reforms, especially among younger voters frustrated with the entrenched political system. Moreover, relations between the Kurdish region and Baghdad have been strained since a controversial independence referendum in 2017. Disputes over oil revenue sharing and budget allocations further fuel tensions. Despite promises from Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani to uphold the rights of Kurdish people within the constitutional framework of Iraq, skepticism among the electorate persists regarding any potential for meaningful political cooperation. Security concerns have also emerged as an influential factor in these elections, particularly in areas still vulnerable to activity from Islamic State sleeper cells. Voters have expressed a desire for greater safety, development, and collaboration among political parties to address these multifaceted challenges.