The Kurdistan Democratic Party denied reaching a final agreement with the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan on a joint Iraqi presidency candidate. The denial followed high-level KDP PUK presidency talks held earlier in Erbil’s Pirmam district. Although several media outlets anticipated an announcement confirming a deal, a KDP source rejected those reports.
Party officials confirmed that senior representatives from both sides met to discuss the Iraqi presidency. However, they clarified that negotiations remain ongoing. Therefore, no final decision has been made regarding a unified nominee. The KDP source stressed that discussions continue in a constructive atmosphere.
The KDP PUK presidency talks aim to determine whether the two ruling Kurdish parties will present a joint candidate or proceed separately. The Iraqi presidency traditionally goes to a Kurdish nominee under the country’s power-sharing framework. Consequently, coordination between the KDP and PUK remains politically significant.
Sources familiar with the meeting stated that both parties reviewed political calculations and constitutional procedures. Moreover, they discussed the broader implications of unity or competition. However, officials emphasized that consensus requires further dialogue.
The delay comes amid continued negotiations in Baghdad over federal government formation. Political observers note that agreement on the presidency could accelerate the broader political process. On the other hand, continued division may prolong parliamentary procedures.
Despite the absence of a final deal, both parties reiterated their commitment to dialogue. They stressed the importance of maintaining Kurdish coordination during a sensitive political phase. Furthermore, they confirmed that additional meetings will take place in the coming days.
In conclusion, the latest KDP PUK presidency talks ended without a formal agreement. Nevertheless, negotiations remain active as both sides seek a solution ahead of the parliamentary session.