President Barzani calls on political parties to conduct a ‘civilized’ election campaign
ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani on Thursday called on all political parties to adhere to the electoral commission’s guidelines during their election campaigns, which will begin in the coming hours. He added that the dignity of female candidates should be protected.
Campaign for Iraq’s legislative elections will begin at 12 am.
“I call on all parties to adhere to the guidelines of the Independent High Electoral Commission. They should conduct a civilized campaign that reflects coexistence, mutual acceptance, and the diversity of Kurdistan's components, and it should not cause tension, division, alienating society, or disrupting citizens' peace,” said President Barzani in a statement.
He added that everyone should be free to campaign, but they should avoid spreading “hatred and malice.”
Rival political parties often have targeted women candidates in previous elections. Women have faced intense personal and professional scrutiny that has included the dissemination of doctored videos. Such tactics aim to publicly shame them, undermine their credibility, and distract from their political messages.
“Women's candidacy is very important and valuable; their names, positions, and dignity must be protected. Also, respect must be shown for the symbols and sanctities of all components, and security forces must professionally carry out their duty to protect everyone without discrimination,” he stressed.
IHEC spokesperson Jumana al-Ghalai told Rudaw on Wednesday that campaigning will open on October 3 for 7,800 approved candidates.
The 329-seat parliament includes 320 general seats and nine minority quota seats.
[Source: Rûdaw English]
