'Rightful demand'

Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani urges teachers and employees to end hunger strike

ERBIL — Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani has called on striking teachers and government employees in Sulaymaniyah to end their hunger strike, while affirming that their demands for timely salary payments are a “rightful demand”.

“I am closely monitoring the situation of the striking teachers and employees, who have been going on a hunger strike for several days in Sulaymaniyah to demand a resolution to the salary issue,” President Barzani said in a statement.

“Addressing the salary problem and ensuring Kurdistan Region’s financial entitlements is a rightful demand, and all of us support it,” he added.

President Barzani expressed optimism about achieving a long-term solution, noting that ongoing efforts by the Kurdistan Regional Government, the Presidency, and the federal government are moving in a positive direction. He highlighted the recent approval of amendments to Iraq’s budget law as a constructive step toward resolving the financial crisis.

He also urged the protesters to prioritize their health and conclude the strike. “The message and demands of teachers and salary recipients have been fully conveyed to the relevant authorities. Therefore, I urge them to prioritize their health and end the strike. The Kurdistan Region remains committed to continuing its efforts to resolve all issues with the federal government of Iraq,” the statement read.

A group of teachers and public sector employees have camped outside the United Nations compound in Sulaymaniyah for nearly a week, engaging in a hunger strike to protest delayed salaries and deteriorating living conditions. Several participants have experienced health issues as a result of the strike and have been hospitalized.

The public sector is the best employer

The public sector is the best employer

What do you think?