The Central Committee of the ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) in a meeting on Monday, June 2, accused some authorities in Baghdad of attempting to reinstate centralism in Iraq and underlined the natural right of Kurdish civil servants to receive their salary.

The KDP underlined that it played a role in the overthrow of the Ba’ath regime in 2003 and in building the new Iraq. “Kurdistan’s leadership, based on the decision of the Kurdistan Parliament, participated in the formation of the new Iraq on the foundation of partnership, consensus, and balance,” the KDP said.

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“Unfortunately, years after the regime’s fall, some authorities in Baghdad – acting with a mentality far removed from federalism – have taken steps toward reinstating centralism, undermining the constitution and political agreements made for cabinet formation, and exerting pressure on the Kurdistan Region using all means, including salary and budget cuts,” the KDP stated.

The Pentagon’s quarterly inspector general report to the U.S. Congress released in May last year also concluded that Iraq has experienced a more stable security and political environment and has used its power to reduce the Kurdistan Region’s autonomy.

The KDP also continued to “call for an end to the unfair treatment of Kurdistani public servants and employees and to the violation of their right to a decent life,” after the Iraqi Ministry of Finance cut the salaries of Kurdish employees.

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Furthermore, the KDP said that Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Masrour Barzani’s visit to U.S. officials and institutions last month was “considered important steps toward further strengthening Kurdistan-U.S. relations.”

The KRG signed two multi-billion dollar deals with HKN Energy and Western Zagros during his visit.

“Agreements reached on oil and gas within the legal framework of the Kurdistan Region were recognized as positive steps for economic development in both Kurdistan and Iraq,” the KDP stated.

The KDP said it also continued efforts to expedite the establishment of the new KRG cabinet.