Sheikh Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa: PUK Has Always Valued Women’s Role in All Fields

Sheikh Jaafar's media office

Sheikh Jaafar's meeting with Kurdistan Women's Union.

Sheikh Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa, Head of the Supreme Interests Protection Council of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), reaffirmed that since its establishment, the PUK has placed great emphasis on the role of women and their participation in political, social, and even military life. He called on women to vote for the PUK’s List No. 222 in the upcoming legislative elections.

This statement came during a meeting held on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, between Sheikh Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa and a group of members of the Kurdistan Women’s Union in Sulaymaniyah.

Sheikh Jaafar spoke about the history of the Kurdistan Women’s Union, which was founded in challenging circumstances following the Anfal campaigns at the suggestion of President Mam Jalal. Since its inception, he said, the Union has continued its civic struggle and has played a significant role in Kurdish society.

He emphasised the PUK’s principled stance on women’s rights, stating: "Since its founding under the leadership of President Mam Jalal, the PUK has attached great importance to women’s struggle to achieve their rights and to ensuring they are given the positions they deserve. Many women have served in parliament, government, provincial councils, and in senior party and governmental posts."

He further noted: "The PUK has not neglected women’s role in the military, having established a special regiment for them within the Peshmerga forces. They have played a distinguished role in combating terrorism and defending the achievements of our people."

Sheikh Jaafar concluded by calling on members of the Women’s Union to remain pioneers in the democratic struggle and to make every effort to support PUK List 222 in the upcoming elections.



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