Erbil – Governor Omed Khoshnaw delivered a sharp response to remarks by Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) leader Bafel Talabani, drawing a clear line between the governance records of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the PUK.
Khoshnaw stated that the KDP’s leadership in Erbil and Duhok has produced visible progress in infrastructure, services, and economic growth, achievements that citizens can see and feel daily. He contrasted this with the PUK’s administration in its areas of influence, claiming that it has failed to deliver comparable development or stability.
“We have accomplishments that make our people proud,” Khoshnaw said. “Those who talk about freedom should first bring progress to their cities instead of slogans.”
The governor also emphasized that genuine freedom stems from good governance, clean administration, and respect for citizens’ rights—not from political rhetoric or divisive campaigns.
His remarks come amid heightened political exchanges between the two dominant Kurdish parties ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections. Both sides are striving to demonstrate leadership strength and credibility across the Kurdistan Region.
Observers say Khoshnaw’s comments reflect the KDP’s confidence in its development track record, as well as growing frustration with PUK criticism of the regional government.