Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) General Secretary Bafel Talabani delivered significant remarks at a campaign event in Sulaymaniyah as part of Iraq’s parliamentary election campaign.
Talabani emphasized that they would defend not only the rights of the Kurds but also those of the Iraqi people in Baghdad.
Directing strong criticism at the KDP, Talabani said: “One side thinks of itself as the master. After the Barzanis’ role in the Anfal and all their crimes, they still went and rode Saddam’s tanks. Are we supposed to work for you? August 31 will never be forgotten, it’s a wound for the Kurdish people. They said, ‘Our relations with Saddam are good.’ They committed crimes, martyred Kurds, sold the Yazidis during the Shengal massacre. They sold Reviyan and our lands to Turkey. So what do you expect from us, to defend your rights?”
Talabani continued: “The KDP imprisoned journalists and political activists. We are defending the fortress of freedom. You all know, they sell our land and then talk about the salary crisis. Who looted Kurdistan’s oil? Who sold it for personal gain? You all know who the culprit is. You know why our children are being bombed, why drones are flying over Hewlêr. May God punish them.”
Talabani said that problems can only be solved in Baghdad, adding: “We did not allow our gas to be cut off because we have electricity. They cannot silence the PUK. The PUK has relations with Baghdad and works to the end for the people’s benefit. Our strength protects our people. In Baghdad, we will defend your rights and your freedom. In Sulaymaniyah, everyone can write and speak freely. No one is above the law.”
Calling on young people, Talabani said that now is the time for youth support and that the PUK will give young people more space and responsibility. He also emphasized the importance of increasing women’s participation in all fields. Finally, Talabani urged everyone to go to the polls and vote for the PUK.
The election campaign period will end tomorrow at 8:00 a.m., and voting will begin on 11 November.