In the presence of Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), a grand public carnival was held today in the city of Khanaqin to introduce the candidates of the PUK’s List No. 222.
Talabani described Khanaqin as “the city of martyrs, sacrifices, and fighters,” expressing his firm belief that its people will once again stand by the PUK and vote for List 222.
In his address, Talabani paid tribute to the city’s enduring spirit and its historic role in the struggle for Kurdish rights. He honoured the memory of Khanaqin’s fallen heroes, including Commander Jabar Farman and Layla Qasim, calling them symbols of resilience and courage for all Kurds.
The PUK President highlighted that Khanaqin and Garmian form the strategic backbone of the PUK, stating, “We will do what we say — Khanaqin and the PUK are one and inseparable.”
Talabani reaffirmed his awareness of the challenges facing the youth and graduates of Khanaqin, urging the party’s candidates to prioritise this vital group when representing the city in Baghdad.
Describing Khanaqin as “the most beautiful city in Diyala and a paradise in Kurdistan,” he pledged to secure long-overdue services for the area, emphasising that the PUK will remain a steadfast defender of the people’s rights, even if other means are needed beyond diplomacy.
Concluding his speech, he called upon Khanaqin’s people to fill the ballot boxes with green on election day, expressing confidence in their loyalty and commitment: “As President Mam Jalal once said: either Kirkuk and Khanaqin, or we will fight for them as long as we live.”
Photo: PUKMedia