KRG Council of Ministers addresses key issues including contract employees and upcoming census
Prime Minister Barzani began by acknowledging the anniversary of the 2017 referendum, hailing it as a significant democratic process, and congratulating the Kurdish people on this occasion.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani chaired a meeting of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Council of Ministers on Wednesday, where key issues were discussed, including contract employees and preparations for the upcoming Iraqi census. The meeting was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani.
Prime Minister Barzani began by acknowledging the anniversary of the 2017 referendum, hailing it as a significant democratic process, and congratulating the Kurdish people on this occasion. He also emphasized the importance of a peaceful and civilized campaign as the Kurdistan Region gears up for parliamentary elections. The Prime Minister expressed hope that the election results would uphold the achievements and constitutional rights of the Kurdish people, further advancing the region’s democratic process.
Contract Employees and Employment Concerns
The first agenda item addressed the status of contract employees, graduates from the top three universities and colleges, and holders of higher degrees, as well as individuals covered by the medical ranking law. Amanj Raheem, Secretary of the Council of Ministers, presented details, providing information on the legal and financial framework governing the issue. Raheem emphasized the significant role contract employees play in KRG institutions and the legitimacy of their demands for permanent status.
Regarding the status of university graduates, holders of advanced degrees, and medical professionals, the Council urged the federal government to allocate necessary positions and financial resources for the 2025 employment schedule. Ensuring equality between the Kurdistan Region and Baghdad in employment opportunities and financial entitlements remains a key priority for the KRG.
Census Preparations and Concerns
The second major topic of discussion was the upcoming Iraqi population census, scheduled for Nov. 20. Dara Rashid, Minister of Planning, and Fahmi Burhan, head of the Board of the Kurdistani Areas Outside the Region, updated the Council on the latest preparations, voicing concerns about the methodology and potential political misuse of the census.
While the KRG is not opposed to the census, the Council stressed that it should not be used for political purposes or replace the constitutional measures outlined in Article 140 of the Iraqi Constitution, which deals with disputed territories. The Ministry of Planning and the Board of Kurdistani Areas Outside the Region were directed to relay these concerns to the federal government.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the KRG's commitment to addressing the needs of its employees, graduates, and the Kurdish people while ensuring that democratic processes and constitutional rights remain protected.
