KDP President Masoud Barzani rallies supporters at election campaign event in Erbil

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a rousing speech delivered at Franso Hariri Stadium in Erbil, Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) President Masoud Barzani called on supporters to participate in the upcoming Kurdistan Region parliamentary elections. Addressing a massive crowd, Barzani praised the democratic progress of the Kurdistan Region, urging the public to uphold the sacrifices made by previous generations by voting in the Oct. 20 election.

KDP President Barzani began by highlighting the KDP’s historic role in championing elections and democracy in Kurdistan. He recalled the 1991 uprising and his call for elections to transition from revolutionary to constitutional legitimacy, emphasizing that the KDP has consistently led every election since the first vote. "It is a great victory and a great achievement that the Kurdish people will determine the way of governance in the Kurdistan Region by their own opinion," he said.

The KDP leader criticized parties that had delayed the election for two years, accusing them of attempting to undermine the KDP through "snap election" elections. Despite this, Barzani affirmed that the KDP has always prioritized the will of the people, standing firm against manipulative efforts.

In a powerful call to action, Barzani urged all KDP supporters, Peshmerga forces, and security personnel to vote for the party's List 190. He emphasized the crucial work awaiting the next parliament, including drafting a new constitution, amending laws, and reversing decisions that have weakened the Kurdistan Region.

KDP President Barzani condemned rival parties for using divisive and antagonistic language, while stressing that the KDP remained focused on serving the people. “Some parties have used inappropriate words and actions, but we did not stoop to their level,” he said. Instead, he expressed his hope that all parties would unite in the interest of the region’s future.

Barzani outlined key priorities for the next government: enhancing public services, strengthening security, combating terrorism, and tackling the growing threat of drug trafficking. He called for unity in Kurdistan, underscoring that there should be "one region, one parliament, one government, and one Peshmerga force."

The KDP’s vision, according to Barzani, is grounded in practical achievements, not empty promises. He pointed to the KDP-led governments since 1992, acknowledging that while mistakes had been made, the party had delivered tangible services to the people of Kurdistan.

He expressed pride in the distribution of 554 apartments to the families of martyrs of the ISIS war, a recent initiative led by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and the Barzani Charity Foundation, demonstrating the KDP’s commitment to all segments of society.

Barzani also noted the KDP’s strong relationships with Iraq’s Shiite and Sunni Arab parties, particularly with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, and expressed optimism that disputes between Erbil and Baghdad could be peacefully resolved following the election.

Closing his speech, Barzani called on voters to remain steadfast, protect Kurdistan’s democratic achievements, and ensure that the KDP continues to lead. "Victory is on the right path," he declared, urging the crowd to vote on Oct. 20.