Iraqi Turkmen demand increased representation in upcoming regional elections

By Ali Makram Ghareeb and Heman Hussein Yaseen

ERBIL, Iraq (AA) - The Iraqi Turkmen Front (ITF) is entering the upcoming Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) parliamentary elections as a unified list on Oct. 20, aiming to secure increased representation for the Turkmen community.

Aydin Maruf, the KRG minister of religious affairs and a candidate for re-election, told Anadolu that the Turkmen are participating in the electoral process through both their quota rights and as a political party.

Highlighting that Turkmen seek more representation than the current quota allows, Maruf noted that the existing system provides only one representative each from Erbil and Sulaymaniyah to the Turkmen community. He stated that the ITF considers this allocation inadequate, which is why they are running as a unified list.

Maruf emphasized the election's significance, expressing confidence in obtaining a substantial number of votes and looking forward to the start of a "new era" in Erbil.

He advocated for forming a government that includes all ethnic groups and political parties in the region. "The most stable option for the region is to ensure no one is left out of the government, allowing everyone to be represented in the best way possible," he said.

- Number of Turkmen Representatives ‘Unfair’

Imdat Terzi, another candidate on the ITF list, emphasized that this election marks the first time in 20 years that the ITF is participating as a political list.

He explained that this decision was triggered by a reduction in the Turkmen quota from five representatives to one, following a ruling by the Iraqi federal court.

Terzi pointed out that around 350,000 Turkmen live in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah, arguing that representation by only one or two individuals is not fair considering the population size.

He also underscored the need for Turkmen representation in administrative and local governments, suggesting that Turkmen should occupy roles such as deputy governors and assistant district governors.

The 2024 parliamentary elections are scheduled for Oct. 20, 2024, after a two-year delay, during which seats in the regional parliament will be contested.

*Writing by Yasin Gungor in Istanbul