PM Barzani addresses key issues at Erbil town hall meeting
The Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to a peaceful and democratic campaign ahead of the Kurdistan parliamentary elections, ensuring that all parties have the freedom to present their platforms.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Prime Minister Masrour Barzani engaged with Erbil province locals in a town hall meeting on Tuesday, addressing pressing concerns, from flood prevention to economic development and political participation, as part of his government's commitment to transparency and dialogue.
Barzani recalled the devastating floods that hit Erbil at the beginning of his cabinet’s term, causing significant loss of life and property. He emphasized that swift action had been taken to prevent a recurrence. "We implemented projects such as building dams, ponds, and cleaning manholes," Barzani stated, noting that these measures have since mitigated the flood risk.
Addressing Erbil's ongoing water shortage, Barzani acknowledged past unfulfilled plans to improve the water supply but promised that a new emergency project was already underway. "Within 18 months, Erbil’s water supply issue will be resolved for the next 30 years," he affirmed.
The Prime Minister also touched on the region’s electricity supply, highlighting efforts to ensure 24-hour power in some neighborhoods despite challenges in securing gas for power plants. Barzani stressed that under his administration, there had been no increase in water or electricity prices for citizens.
A key point of discussion was the longstanding issue of public-sector employment. Barzani explained that since 2013, Baghdad has restricted public employment in the Kurdistan Region, while employing over a million people in the rest of Iraq.
Barzani also lamented the interference of some political factions in Erbil-Baghdad relations, which he claimed had hindered problem-solving between the two governments. He expressed optimism about ongoing talks with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani, reiterating his commitment to federalism.
On education, Barzani noted significant improvements in both the public and higher education sectors, promising further advancements in the future.
The Prime Minister also encouraged voters to participate in the upcoming parliamentary elections, warning against political disillusionment. “If you don’t vote, others will decide your future for you,” he said, urging citizens to take responsibility for their country's fate.
Turning to the economy, Barzani praised diversification efforts under his administration, stating that both public and private sector projects had advanced despite external challenges. "Our goal is to learn from the experiences of other countries and attract investment to Kurdistan," he remarked.
He addressed concerns about project implementation disparities between Erbil and Sulaimani, stressing that the government’s projects are designed to serve all provinces equally. He acknowledged local administrative challenges, criticizing political interference in provincial affairs.
Barzani also highlighted Kurdistan's stability and its reputation as a hub of peaceful coexistence among diverse communities. "The Kurdistan Region is a beacon of coexistence for all ethnicities and religions," he said.
The Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to a peaceful and democratic campaign ahead of the Kurdistan parliamentary elections, ensuring that all parties have the freedom to present their platforms.
I was humbled to sit with people across Erbil to discuss the challenges that they, their families and communities face today, and what the future holds for us all.
— Masrour Barzani (@masrourbarzani) October 8, 2024
May the conversation continue.https://t.co/uEzgVBPql2 pic.twitter.com/2xAFfLDDJb
