Kurdistan's youth look to elections with hope, calling for change, accountability
Citizens hold a range of views on the significance of this election. Some see it as a pivotal moment for continued progress in the region. “The next government should serve more and focus on rebuilding cities and towns,” said one citizen.

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – As the Kurdistan Region approaches the parliamentary elections for its sixth session, young people are expressing optimism and calling for real change from the candidates.
Public gatherings are abuzz with discussions about the upcoming elections, scheduled for October 20, with a special vote for the Peshmerga and security forces on October 18.
Citizens hold a range of views on the significance of this election. Some see it as a pivotal moment for continued progress in the region. “The next government should serve more and focus on rebuilding cities and towns,” said one citizen.
Others describe it as a "crucial election" for the future of Kurdistan.
Voters are urging candidates to follow through on their promises. "The candidates who win must not forget the people. What they say during their campaign must be put into practice tomorrow," another citizen told Kurdistan24.
The demand for transparent, fair elections resonates strongly among the public, with many insisting that the election process must be “civil, democratic, and free from violations and fraud.”
Young people are particularly engaged in this year’s election, viewing it as a chance for real progress. Many have expressed hope that the next government, the tenth cabinet of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), will prioritize the concerns of the youth.
“It is a pleasure to see so many candidates who are young, skilled, and academic,” one young voter said. “I am sure they can move the Kurdistan Region forward. This time, the candidates are up to date and can bring change.”
The Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) has announced that the campaign period for the elections will continue until October 15.
In addition, the KRG has established a special committee to monitor the campaigns of independent parties and candidates, with penalties in place for those who violate election guidelines.
Punishments range from temporary suspension to permanent exclusion from the electoral process.
A total of 136 lists, comprising 1,191 party candidates, independent candidates, and quota candidates, are vying for 100 seats in the Kurdistan Parliament.
Kurdistan24 correspondent Aware Hawramy did further reporting.