KIRKUK – The Kirkuk Agriculture Directorate says disputes over agricultural land fall under federal authority. The statement came in response to a request from the provincial council.
In an official letter signed by Zuhair Ali Hussein on April 5, the directorate clarified several key points. It explained the legal framework governing farmland issues. According to the statement, agricultural land is a sovereign matter. It falls under the Iraqi Ministry of Agriculture. This is based on Federal Court Decision No. 132 of 2023.
Moreover, the directorate confirmed that past contracts are no longer valid. These agreements were signed by the dissolved “Northern Affairs Committee.” Therefore, they cannot be renewed. In addition, officials stressed their limited role. The directorate only implements decisions. It follows instructions issued by federal authorities.
The response followed a request by Zahir Anwar Assi. He called for halting the cancellation of contracts held by Arab settlers. Meanwhile, Abdullah Mreis said a higher committee made the decision. This body oversees the implementation of Article 140 of the constitution.
Moreover, He added that the decision supports Kurdish and Turkmen farmers. At the same time, officials stressed the need to follow legal procedures. The farmland issue in Kirkuk remains complex. It dates back to policies under the former Iraqi regime. Large areas of land were reassigned during that time.
Authorities say federal oversight is essential. They stress that legal solutions are needed to resolve the dispute.