President Barzani marks 7th anniversary of Referendum with poetic reflections on freedom, sovereignty
As President Barzani reflected on the anniversary, the poems he chose serve as a poignant reminder of the Kurdish people’s enduring commitment to freedom and sovereignty, even in the face of significant challenges.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – On the seventh anniversary of the historic Kurdistan Region Independence Referendum, Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) President Masoud Barzani commemorated the occasion by publishing two poems that emphasize the values of freedom, sovereignty, and dignity.
On Wednesday, President Barzani shared works from two renowned Arab poets, al-Mutanabbi and Mikhail Naimy, to mark the anniversary of the referendum, a defining moment in the Kurdish people’s quest for self-determination.
In his message, President Barzani cited al-Mutanabbi's famous verse:
“Should your heart aspire to the heavens' embrace,
Settle not for less than a celestial chase.”
The line reflects the unwavering commitment to achieving independence and preserving Kurdish dignity.
Barzani also quoted a poem by Mikhail Naimy, which underscores the profound value of freedom:
“Liberty, a treasure beyond all measure,
Demands a sacrifice, a boundless pleasure.”
إذا غامَرْتَ في شَرَفٍ مَرُومِ
— Masoud Barzani (@masoud_barzani) September 25, 2024
فَلا تَقنَعْ بما دونَ النّجومِ
———
إنَّ الحريةَ أثمنُ ما في الوجود، لذلك كان ثمنُها باهظاً.
This powerful statement highlights the sacrifices that accompany the pursuit of liberty, a theme resonating deeply with the Kurdish struggle.
Seven Years Since the Historic Referendum
The referendum, held on Sept. 25, 2017, saw an overwhelming 92.7% of voters casting their ballots in favor of independence, with a voter turnout of 72%. This landmark event remains a pivotal moment in the modern history of the Kurdistan Region, representing the Kurdish people’s aspirations for self-determination.
While the political trajectory following the referendum took an unexpected turn, many political experts argue that the vote remains a powerful symbol and a significant "card" for the Kurdistan Region.
“The Kurdish people can use this card as historical proof of their existence and their desire for independence,” political analyst Saman Sorani told Kurdistan24. "It is a reminder to the world that the Kurds held a referendum and voted overwhelmingly for independence."
The Referendum as a Symbol of Legitimacy
Experts in international relations view the referendum as a legitimate assertion of Kurdish national sovereignty.
Parwez Rahim, an expert in international relations, stated, “This referendum is a way for the Kurdish people to declare to the world what they want. It embodies the national sovereignty they seek within the framework of the state.”
Despite subsequent political developments, the Kurdish leadership continues to view the referendum as a legitimate expression of the Kurdish people's right to self-determination.
Violations of the Iraqi constitution and the failure to uphold the principles of agreement, balance, and partnership have fueled frustrations within the Kurdistan Region, prompting its political leadership to explore paths toward independence.
As President Barzani reflected on the anniversary, the poems he chose serve as a poignant reminder of the Kurdish people’s enduring commitment to freedom and sovereignty, even in the face of significant challenges.