Polling stations open for crucial Kurdistan Region parliamentary election

ERBIL – Polling stations opened at 7 a.m. today for the Kurdistan Region’s parliamentary elections, kicking off a general voting process that will continue until 6 p.m. local time.

A total of 1,266 polling stations have been set up across the region, with 498 in Erbil, 477 in Sulaymaniyah, 264 in Duhok, and 27 in Halabja.

Political leaders were among the early voters, encouraging citizens to participate actively in the democratic process. Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani, after casting his vote, addressed the media, underscoring the significance of the event.

“In this process, the true victors are the people of the Kurdistan Region and Kurdistan itself,” Barzani said. He also expressed satisfaction with the smooth conduct of the elections, noting, “I am pleased that the election call, despite a few minor issues, has been carried out in a peaceful manner.”

Barzani emphasized the importance of voter participation, stating, “I hope today the people of Kurdistan will practice their authority in choosing their representatives and sending them to the Kurdistan Parliament.”

On Oct. 18, special voting was held for security forces, with the Iraqi Electoral Commission reporting a 97% turnout. The final results of today’s general vote are expected within 24 hours after polling closes.

Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani also cast his vote in Pirman, near Erbil. Speaking at a press conference afterward, he expressed hope that voters would recognize and support those who have served with dedication and integrity.

“I hope all eligible voters today will head to the polling stations and make their decision about their future representatives and government,” Prime Minister Barzani said. He added, “I hope today’s parliamentary election is conducted in a calm and smooth manner.”

In Sulaymaniyah, Bafel Talabani, head of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, cast his vote and urged citizens to take part in the elections. “Dear people of Kurdistan, go vote, wake up quickly,” Talabani said.

Shaswar Abdulwahid, leader of the opposition New Generation Movement, also voted in Sulaymaniyah, telling reporters, “Today, the people can make the next four years the best years by electing a good government for the future.”

A total of 2,899,578 voters are registered for the election, consisting of 2,683,618 general voters and 215,960 special voters.

Voter demographics show 521,372 men and 494,216 women participating in both the general and special voting processes.

The election is divided into four constituencies: Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Duhok , and Halabja. Of the 100 seats in the Kurdistan Parliament, five are reserved for minorities—Christians and Turkmens—from Erbil, Duhok, and Sulaymaniyah.