KRG Warns Against External Manipulation of Sulaimani Protests Amid Security Concerns
The ministry warned against attempts to manipulate the protests for political gains, pointing to certain factions and groups that have sought to exploit the situation to destabilize the Kurdistan Region.
Feb. 9, 2025
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Ministry of Interior issued a statement on Sunday regarding recent demonstrations in Sulaimani, emphasizing the government’s ongoing efforts to address Kurdistan Region civil servants' demands while warning against the exploitation of protests by external actors.
The ministry acknowledged that a number of Kurdistan Region civil servants had gathered in Sulaimani to voice their concerns, particularly regarding salaries and financial entitlements.
The statement reiterated that the KRG has consistently worked with Baghdad to resolve these issues, emphasizing that recent agreements with the federal government have led to progress in securing budgetary allocations.
“The concerns and demands of civil servants and unions have always been a priority for the Kurdistan Regional Government. We have been in continuous dialogue with the federal government in Baghdad to secure their financial rights, and we have made significant efforts in this regard," The statement read.
However, the ministry warned against attempts to manipulate the protests for political gains, pointing to certain factions and groups that have sought to exploit the situation to destabilize the Kurdistan Region.
Concerns Over External Influence
According to the statement, there is growing concern that various internal and external groups, including elements associated with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), are attempting to exploit the protests to implement their own agendas. The KRG’s Interior Ministry confirmed that while peaceful demonstrations are respected, any attempt to disrupt the region’s security will not be tolerated and any action that is illegal and against the regulation will not be allowed.
Unrest in the Kurdistan Region, driven by salary delays and teacher strikes, has been exacerbated by political and militia interference.
While Erbil and Baghdad recently amended the Budget Law to resume the Kurdistan Region’s oil exports, some factions seek to undermine the deal.
Meanwhile, Erbil officials warn against exploiting protests for political gain, reaffirming the KRG’s commitment to stability and economic reforms.
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