The Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) is seeking a genuine partnership in forming the next Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) cabinet. The move comes nearly a year after the Kurdistan Region held its delayed parliamentary elections. For the first time in months, the PUK and the ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) held two high-level meetings in three days.
In the meetings, PUK leaders emphasized the need for guarantees from the KDP to ensure a genuine partnership. They warned that without these assurances, the party might reconsider its participation in the cabinet. Pola Sirwan Talabani, a PUK Leadership Council member, said the discussions focused on forming a government that truly serves the people of Kurdistan.
During the meetings, the PUK demanded the post of interior minister or another key ministry. The party intends to use the position to fulfill its promises to supporters. Talabani explained that the PUK wants the prime minister and deputy prime minister to jointly oversee the cabinet formation.
The meetings, attended by KDP President Masoud Barzani, KRG President Nechirvan Barzani, and Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, aimed to reactivate the parliament. The legislature has only convened once since the election, with no sessions scheduled for almost ten months. The PUK and KDP reportedly share a mutual vision for the new government.
The PUK and KDP have a long history of power-sharing, with the KDP traditionally holding the posts of president and prime minister. Talabani said the meetings have gone well, showing progress toward compromise. The parties are also coordinating roles, including the speaker and deputy speaker posts.
Observers note that these talks coincide with a milestone in Kurdish oil exports. The resumption of exports followed an agreement between Erbil, Baghdad, and international companies, boosting the region’s economy. Analysts say the timing shows the PUK and KDP are eager to stabilize governance while leveraging economic momentum.
The PUK plans to soon announce candidates for cabinet and parliamentary posts. Both parties continue negotiations to secure a genuine partnership that strengthens political stability and serves the citizens of Kurdistan.