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KRG Extends Public Relief with Electricity Discounts and Fuel Reforms

The Kurdistan Region Government (KRG) approved several new measures to improve public services. The package also aims to reduce financial burdens and strengthen market oversight. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani chaired the latest Council of Ministers meeting. During the session, ministers reviewed security developments, fuel prices, and administrative reforms.

First, the Council discussed the recent attacks targeting the Kurdistan Region. Officials stressed that the Region continues to promote peace and stability. They also called for an immediate end to the attacks. According to officials, these incidents threaten regional security and public safety.

Meanwhile, ministers focused on rising fuel prices across the Kurdistan Region. The Acting Minister of Natural Resources presented a report on fuel supplies and market conditions. Consequently, the Council instructed the ministry to strengthen inspections at fuel stations. Officials also directed authorities to improve market oversight. In addition, they ordered fuel stations to comply with official pricing regulations. Inspectors will continue checking fuel quality to protect consumers.

The Council also introduced financial incentives for electricity subscribers. Residential and agricultural customers can receive a 50 percent discount on unpaid electricity bills. These discounts apply to debts accumulated before the Runaki Project begins. Meanwhile, industrial, commercial, and public sector subscribers qualify for a 25 percent discount on eligible debts.

Officials believe these incentives will encourage subscribers to settle overdue payments. As a result, the government expects stronger revenue collection. The additional revenue will support plans for reliable 24-hour electricity across the Kurdistan Region.

Furthermore, the Council instructed the Ministry of Electricity and the Runaki Project team to publish implementation procedures quickly. Clear guidelines will help subscribers understand eligibility requirements. They will also explain payment procedures before the program begins.

Finally, the Council approved new regulations governing unpaid leave for civil servants. The updated rules will create consistent procedures across government institutions. Moreover, the reforms will align employment practices with the Unified Retirement Law and the Civil Service Law. The Ministry of Finance and Economy will prepare the necessary guidelines. The General Council of the Civil Service will support this process.

Overall, the latest decisions reflect the Kurdistan Region Government’s commitment to improving services. The measures also aim to reduce financial pressure on citizens. In addition, officials want to strengthen fuel market oversight and modernize public administration.

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