Erbil, Kurdistan Region – The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) held an expanded meeting of its Central Committee today, chaired by party leader Masoud Barzani, with the attendance of committee members and senior party officials.

The meeting began with a tribute to the martyrs of Kurdistan, particularly honoring Barzani the Immortal and Kak Idris, before moving on to discussions on pressing political and economic matters.

1. Federal Government Relations: Salary Crisis and Constitutional Rights

The KDP reaffirmed its role in overthrowing the former Iraqi regime and establishing a new, federal Iraq based on partnership, consensus, and balance. However, the party criticized some Baghdad authorities for abandoning federal principles, recentralizing power, and violating constitutional agreements.

The meeting strongly condemned the withholding of Kurdistan’s budget and public servant salaries, calling it an unjust pressure tactic. While welcoming recent positive signals from Baghdad to resolve the crisis, the KDP demanded immediate action to end the suffering of Kurdish employees and citizens.

2. Kurdish Unity Efforts: Failed Alliances and Joint Meeting

The KDP reiterated its commitment to Kurdish political pluralism and revealed its unsuccessful attempts to form a unified Kurdish alliance ahead of Iraq’s upcoming sixth parliamentary elections. Despite efforts, some parties rejected dialogue, though a recent joint meeting of Kurdish factions was deemed productive.

3. KRG Prime Minister’s U.S. Visit: Strengthening Ties and Energy Deals

The meeting praised KRG Prime Minister’s recent visit to the U.S., highlighting strengthened Kurdistan-U.S. relations and agreements on oil and gas fields—seen as vital for economic recovery in both Kurdistan and Iraq.

4. Formation of the KRG’s Tenth Cabinet

Updates were provided on ongoing negotiations to form the KRG’s tenth cabinet, with the KDP stressing the need for swift resolution to ensure stability.

5. Preparations for Iraq’s Upcoming Elections

The KDP’s Higher Supervision Committee outlined preparations for Iraq’s sixth parliamentary elections, with the Central Committee approving the proposed electoral strategy.

The KDP reaffirmed its principled stance on protecting Kurdistan’s constitutional rights while calling for unity among Kurdish factions and a fair resolution to the ongoing disputes with Baghdad.