Iraqi Kurdistan Holds Crucial Elections Amid Economic and Political Strife

Voters in the semi-autonomous region express frustration over economic instability and entrenched party rivalries as they elect a new parliament.

The parliamentary elections, delayed since 2022, feature over 1,000 candidates vying for 100 seats, including a mandated quota for 30 women.
Economic woes, including halted oil exports and delayed government salaries, dominate voter concerns, with many blaming political mismanagement.
The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) continue to dominate, though opposition parties like New Generation are gaining some traction.
Relations with Baghdad remain tense over issues like oil revenue sharing, with the central government asserting the need for constitutional compliance.
Security concerns persist, particularly in disputed areas, with voters hoping for increased stability and development in the region.