PUK President: We Announce Our Withdrawal from This Failed Government

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PUK President Bafel Jalal Talabani.

Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), has announced the party’s withdrawal from the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), declaring that it does not recognise the developments that took place in Erbil a few days ago.

In a video message, the PUK President said: “We have made every effort to establish a strong and effective government in the Kurdistan Region. I personally visited Erbil more than 15 times and held meetings with many of our counterparts there. Unfortunately, however, we were unable to reach an agreement. On every occasion, they used various pretexts to obstruct our progress towards an understanding.”

He added: “What took place in the Kurdistan Parliament was merely a meeting of a minority within the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP). They have shown no respect for democracy or the will of the voters. They have also demonstrated their willingness to use public funds to bribe or threaten members of parliament. Although we could have done the same, we are not like them and will not resort to such actions.”

The PUK President continued: “Today, following a meeting of the Leadership Council, I have been granted full authority to take action. We hereby declare that we do not recognise the move made within the Kurdistan Parliament or any consequences arising from it.

“For more than two years, this administration has operated merely as a caretaker government, yet it has failed to deliver anything for the people. It is a failed government, and our first decision is to withdraw from it, with immediate effect. Our focus is now on addressing the needs of our citizens and fulfilling their aspirations.”

He further stated: “We have made a pledge before Almighty God and all our citizens that we will work to meet their needs. We will not recognise any government or position arising from the move made in Erbil a few days ago.

“To the other side, we say: whatever steps you take, we will respond accordingly. If you appoint a President of the Kurdistan Region, we will appoint one too. If you appoint a Prime Minister, we will do likewise. And if you appoint any minister, we will appoint a minister as well. In short, whatever action you take will be met with a corresponding response.”

President Bafel concluded: “I tell you now, in the name of God: you started this, and I will finish it.”

To be updated…


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