Sheikh Mustafa: PUK Committed to Pluralism & Respect of Cultural Diversity

PUKMEDIA

PUK's Sheikh Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa's meeting with Nineveh social figures.

Sheikh Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa, Head of the Protection Council of Higher Interests of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), received a delegation of dignitaries, social figures, and representatives from various segments of society within Nineveh Province on Saturday, 23 August 2025.

In his remarks, Sheikh Mustafa highlighted the historic role played by the citizens of Nineveh Province, with all their diverse communities, throughout the different stages of the history of Kurdistan and Iraq. He reflected on the immense tragedies and displacement they endured during the period of the Islamic State (ISIS) control, while underscoring the humanitarian role of the PUK, the people of Sulaymaniyah, and other areas of the Kurdistan Region in sheltering and providing assistance to those displaced from Nineveh and other provinces.

He added that the citizens of the Kurdistan Region themselves had experienced forced displacement at various times. Yet, through their resilience and determination, they were able to return to their homeland and rebuild the foundations of life and livelihood. He urged: “You too must look to the future of yourselves, your children, and your homeland with the same strength of will.”

Sheikh Mustafa also reaffirmed that the PUK is deeply committed to pluralism and the respect of cultural diversity, and has consistently opposed racism, intolerance, and the domination of one group over another.

He further noted: “Most political changes in Iraq have previously been brought about by force. However, circumstances have now changed, and Iraqis must be encouraged to pursue democratic and parliamentary struggles, achieving political, economic, and social transformation through democratic means.”



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