The Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) is calling for a genuine partnership in the formation of the new Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), stressing that it must be a service-oriented administration that operates fairly across all regions. On this basis, Qubad Talabani, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, affirmed that a strong regional government cannot be established without the PUK.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, Talabani stated, “The final decision on forming the new government in the Kurdistan Region rests with the main parties,” signalling their readiness to resume talks with the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP).
He added, “Threats suggesting the formation of a government without the participation of the PUK are baseless. No government in the Kurdistan Region can succeed without the PUK.”
Azad Hama Amin, a member of the Kurdistan Parliament, told PUK Media, “No government will be formed in the Kurdistan Region without the PUK. The reality of the region demands the PUK’s active involvement in governance. No party can exclude a party that has sacrificed over 26,000 martyrs in shaping Kurdistan’s current experience.”
He continued, “The PUK’s demands are neither partisan nor personal. Their goal is to establish good governance, create a service-oriented administration that treats all regions equally, and address issues both within the region and with the federal government.” He explained, “Through active participation, the PUK aims to correct the course of governance. During the Iraqi parliamentary election campaign, discrimination between regions in service projects was evident. The PUK seeks to end this inequality.”
He emphasised, “No government can function effectively without the PUK, which seeks active participation to end discrimination and ensure services reach all citizens. This reflects President Bafel Jalal Talabani’s commitment to the people.”
Kurdish writer Twana Amin also believes that any government formed without the PUK will not succeed. He wrote, “Is it realistically possible for the PUK not to participate in the next regional government? This is the fundamental question, and the answer will soon be clear.” He added, “Excluding the PUK from government does not only mean leaving them out; it essentially undermines the stability of the Kurdistan Region itself.”