ERBIL, Kurdistan Region – In a forceful campaign speech on Sunday, Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) Vice President Masrour Barzani called on supporters to vote in large numbers in Iraq’s upcoming parliamentary elections, framing the vote as a pivotal moment for the future of the Kurdish people.

Addressing a rally in Shaqlawa for the KDP’s list 275, Barzani positioned his party as the central force defending Kurdish rights in Baghdad and warned against political fragmentation.

"The history of the KDP is clear. With Kurdistan behind us, we will always demand the rights of the Kurdish people, and no force can destroy us," Barzani declared to a cheering crowd, asserting that the party's strength stems from decades of public trust and political struggle.

He presented voters with a stark choice, stating, “We can either allow chaos to continue and let our rights be violated, or we can defend the constitutional rights of our people through active participation in the Iraqi parliament.” Emphasizing the need for Kurdish unity, he questioned the record of rival parties, asking, “Which party has defended the rights of the Kurdish people, except for KDP representatives?”

Barzani outlined the mission for KDP candidates, pledging they would "safeguard the rights of the Kurdish people and all communities, defend democracy and freedom, and avoid secret deals like other parties."

In a sharp critique of rival Kurdish and Iraqi factions, Barzani accused some of holding "chauvinistic ideas" aimed at weakening the KDP and dividing the Kurdistan Region. “This time, we must prevent them from doing so,” he warned, adding that “the KDP considers itself the rightful owner of all of Kurdistan.”

The KDP leader also addressed the prolonged political deadlock that has prevented the formation of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) tenth cabinet, defending his party's stance.

“The KDP will not participate in a government used for personal gain or one that includes corruption and the mafia,” Barzani stated, insisting that the party seeks an inclusive administration. “The KDP insists that the government must be one government, one Kurdistan,” he said, attributing this position to party leader President Masoud Barzani.

Concluding on an optimistic note, Barzani assured supporters that the KDP remains the leading political force capable of securing a stronger future. “We are moving toward light, progress, and victory,” he said.

The KDP has consistently championed adherence to Iraq’s 2005 constitution, particularly its clauses on Kurdish autonomy, resource rights, and the region's share of the federal budget. The party maintains that a unified Kurdish bloc in Baghdad is essential to prevent the erosion of these constitutional guarantees.