Barzani Calls for Implementing Constitution, Approving Oil and Gas Law, and Amending Election System

Peregraf – Masoud Barzani, President of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), said on Wednesday that Iraq is at a “sensitive moment” and urged Baghdad and Erbil to commit to the Constitution to resolve longstanding disputes. Speaking at the Middle East Peace and Security (MEPS) Forum in Duhok, Barzani outlined key priorities, including implementing Article 140, approving the long-delayed Oil and Gas Law, and amending Iraq’s Election Law, which he described as “very unfair.”

Barzani warned that the policy of “self-imposition” has failed in Iraq and across the region and stressed that the Iraqi state was built on partnership. “There is no logic for us to live together in this region and remain in conflict,” he said, adding that the rule of law must prevail and that “mini-states within the state” should no longer obstruct progress.

He called the recent Iraqi parliamentary election “technically very successful” and expressed hope that its outcome would pave the way for forming both the next federal government in Baghdad and a new cabinet in the Kurdistan Region. He noted that after the Kurdistan Region’s own election results were announced, the KDP called for forming a broad-based government in Kurdistan Region, “but the parties did not come forward.”

Barzani emphasized the need to establish the Federal Council and the Federal Court in accordance with the Constitution, saying these institutions are necessary guarantees for both the Kurdistan Region and Iraq’s provinces.

Addressing regional issues, Barzani reaffirmed support for the peace process in Turkey and said a “golden opportunity” exists for Syrian Kurds to reach an agreement with Damascus.

He urged all Kurdish parties to carefully consider the post-election landscape. “The situation after the election is not the same as before,” he said, calling on each party to take its role according to its “deserving share.”