“Forward to Victory, Towards Baghdad” President Bafel Urges Garmian to Turn Ballot Boxes Green

PUK President’s media office

PUK President, Bafel Jalal Talabani at Garmian Carnival.

Today, Wednesday 22 October 2025, a public carnival was held at Sherwana Castle in Kalar, within the Garmian Administration. The event was attended by President Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), to introduce the candidates for PUK List No. 222.

During his address, President Bafel Jalal Talabani stated: “The PUK will advance to Baghdad with strength, backed by the loyal people of the Garmian region. Garmian represents the spearhead of the Kurds.”

He added: “We deliver on our promises. When we made Rizgari a district, it was a commitment, and we fulfilled it.” President Bafel reaffirmed the PUK’s dedication to its programmes and to serving citizens.

Describing Garmian as “the green fortress of the PUK,” he urged the public to “vote for List No. 222 and strengthen the PUK’s influence in Baghdad.”

Addressing the importance of representation, President Bafel stated: “Representatives from Garmian must have a stronger presence in the government and in Baghdad this time. I await you and your representatives so we can fight for a life, rights, and salaries worthy of our people’s dignity. You are the true owners of the PUK, and our candidates are committed to serving you in Baghdad. We owe much to Garmian, and from you we have learned the meaning of sacrifice and freedom. Vote for PUK List No. 222.”

Reflecting on the PUK’s position, he said: “Eight years ago, I declared that we were not and would not be subordinate to any other party. Today, we are at the forefront. Other parties look to us, to our political, military, and diplomatic strength, and most importantly, to the people’s support for the PUK.”

President Bafel emphasised: “The PUK is a party that fights for its people, not for positions or personal interests. That is why the PUK commands respect in Baghdad and abroad. This is the legacy and approach of President Mam Jalal.”

On the unity of Kurdistan, he noted: “The PUK views the four parts of Kurdistan as a single unit, as its intentions and programmes differ from other parties.”

Addressing the people of Garmian, he added: “You and the PUK are fighting for the Kurdish cause. Who else has offered martyrs for the Kurdish identity like the PUK? Who has sacrificed as much as you have?”

President Bafel highlighted the PUK’s achievements: “We have fulfilled what we promised. We restored political balance in Kurdistan. We strengthened the PUK in Baghdad. We revived our international relations. We built a force unmatched in the Middle East. We made Kirkuk green again. And we refused to participate in any regional government unless it genuinely served the people.”

At the close of his speech, President Bafel said: “These elections are crucial, and everyone must go to the ballot boxes and make them green. The more votes and seats we secure, the stronger we become. Let all the ballot boxes in Garmian turn green, O green fortress of the PUK. We are at your service, and Garmian is the strength of the PUK. In the name of Almighty God, forward — towards victory, towards Baghdad.”



PUKMEDIA