President Bafel in Kirkuk: Kirkuk Liberated Through Unity, Not War

P.U.K 03:33 PM - 2025-10-28

PUK President, Bafel Jalal Talabani.

In the presence of Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), a large public carnival was held in Kirkuk on Tuesday, 28 November 2025, to introduce the candidates of the PUK’s List No. 222 for the upcoming Iraqi parliamentary elections.

The event was attended by several members of the PUK Politburo and Leadership Council, candidates from List 222 in the Kirkuk constituency, as well as thousands of PUK cadres, supporters, and citizens from across Kirkuk’s diverse communities.

During the gathering, President Bafel Jalal Talabani delivered a speech reflecting on the PUK’s long-standing struggle and historic commitment to Kirkuk and its people.

Opening his address, President Bafel said: “Masha Allah, I see a green sea of citizens of Kirkuk. Greetings to Kirkuk, greetings to coexistence, and greetings to the sacred city of Kurdistan.”

Promises Fulfilled in Kirkuk

President Bafel reaffirmed that the PUK has delivered on the promises it made two years ago in Kirkuk. He said the visible progress in construction, reconstruction, security, stability, and coexistence was the result of the PUK’s “successful and responsible policy,” continuing along the path laid by President Mam Jalal.

He stressed that the PUK is a strong and fair party, treating all communities of Kirkuk equally and rejecting discrimination of any kind.

“Two years ago,” he said, “I promised that we would replace the corrupt former governor, rebuild the city, and improve services for the people. We have honoured that promise. Kirkuk is developing before your eyes thanks to the efforts of Governor Rebwar Taha, who represents all communities without discrimination — Kurds, Arabs, Turkmen, Christians, and Kaka’is. Despite opposition from some parties, we did not abandon Kirkuk, and today’s progress is proof of that commitment.”

Implementing Article 140

President Bafel Jalal Talabani reiterated the PUK’s determination to implement Article 140 of the Iraqi Constitution and to guarantee equal citizenship for all.

He pointed to growing foreign investment and major new projects in Kirkuk as evidence of renewed stability and confidence, describing this as the outcome of the PUK’s policy of “strength through peace,” inspired by Mam Jalal’s vision.

“Farmers are no longer oppressed as they once were,” he said. “Everyone’s rights have been restored, without exception. This is the embodiment of national unity under the PUK’s leadership.”

Addressing Kirkuk’s diverse communities, President Bafel sent a heartfelt message: “We respect your identity, your uniqueness, and your vital role. We pledge to defend your rights and your future in Kirkuk. We ask for your trust and your votes, because the PUK will never abandon you. We are your power in Baghdad.”

Kirkuk Liberated Through Unity

The PUK President underscored that Kirkuk’s progress was achieved not through conflict, but through democracy, unity, and solidarity among its people.

“Those who boast of liberating Kirkuk through war should look around,” he said. “Kirkuk has been liberated through democracy, through the unity of its citizens, and through their defence of justice — not through empty promises.”

He criticised parties that claim to represent Kirkuk but have failed to deliver for its people, saying: “There is a party with two seats in Kirkuk — yet what have they done for the people, apart from filling their officials’ pockets? They have abandoned Kirkuk and do not dare to return and defend it.”

President Bafel reaffirmed the PUK’s commitment to education and cultural rights, stating: “Kurdish students in Kirkuk must study in their mother tongue, and we will never allow this right to be taken away. We are your power in Baghdad and will make Kirkuk stronger there by voting for the PUK and List 222. We will also stand by our people in Duz Khurmatu and Saladin, supporting our candidate Malla Karim Shukur.”

A Stronger, More United PUK

In his closing remarks, President Bafel Jalal Talabani declared that the PUK is now stronger, more united, and more optimistic than ever before.

“Support the PUK, List No. 222, your governor, and your city,” he urged. “We, in turn, will continue to support you, defend you, and be your voice in Baghdad. In doing so, we honour the memory of Mam Jalal and continue his path.”

Concluding with passion, he said: “We are your power in Baghdad. Go to the ballot boxes and colour them green. We thank you for your presence and salute you — Kirkuk, Kirkuk, Kirkuk!”



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