The long-awaited Kurdistan Parliament elections began today, October 20, marking the first election since 2018, after years of delay.
According to the latest data from Iraq’s Independent High Electoral Commission, so far the turnout before 12:00 pm has been 34% in Erbil, 29% in Sulaymaniyah, 31% in Duhok, and 33% in Halabja. Polling stations close at 6:00 pm.
Today is election day in the IKR. Voting is the backbone of a successful democracy, and we encourage all eligible voters in the IKR to participate in the parliamentary elections and make their voices heard. pic.twitter.com/olLVbjZjN7
— U.S. Consulate General Erbil (@USCGERBIL) October 20, 2024
“Today is election day for the Iraqi Kurdistan Parliament. It is important for all eligible voters in the Iraqi Kurdistan region to participate in parliamentary elections and make their voices heard. Voting is the backbone of a successful democracy,” U.S. Ambassador Alina L. Romanowski posted in a video on X.
“We also urge all political parties and actors to ensure the election is free and fair without violence or intimidation.”
Speaking to media after visiting a polling center today, SRSG Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan: “This is an historic day in Kurdistan; we congratulate the people of this beloved region on this democratic celebration. We hope that everything continues as we have witnessed, safe & peaceful.” pic.twitter.com/Lcn2w8IQTu
— UNAMI (@UNIraq) October 20, 2024
Speaking to the media after visiting a polling center today, the Special Representative for Iraq and Head of the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) Mohamed Al Hassan said that “this is a historic day in Kurdistan; we congratulate the people of this beloved region on this democratic celebration. We hope that everything continues as we have witnessed, safe and peaceful.
“The UN is supportive of Iraq and supportive of Kurdistan. The people of Kurdistan deserve all the best, and deserve security and peace. What is happening today is proof of the bright future for Kurdistan and Iraq. We wish you success and prosperity.”
“This is a consequential election,” Kurdistan Regional Government Prime Minister Masrour Barzani said in a post on X. “I urge all Kurdistanis to cast their votes. I hope you elect the party with a proven track record of honesty and service.”
This is a consequential election.
— Masrour Barzani (@masrourbarzani) October 20, 2024
I urge all Kurdistanis to cast their votes. I hope you elect the party with a proven track record of honesty and service -mb. pic.twitter.com/oItL7KRpMX
