Firstly, let us examine the issue of delayed elections in the Kurdistan Region. While Iraq has successfully managed to hold elections despite numerous obstacles, the Kurdistan Region, with its population of approximately 6.6 million and two main ruling parties, has been unable to conduct general elections according to schedule. This situation raises concerns about the region's ability to maintain democratic continuity. Timely elections are a fundamental requirement for any functioning entity as they provide the foundation for democratic representation and decision-making processes. If the Kurdistan Region fails to fulfil the basic obligation of holding elections on time, it raises questions about the validity of our previous conviction in pursuing independence, as demonstrated by our referendum on independence a few years ago.
Elections are a primary means through which democratic values can be gradually instilled. Over time, they contribute to the development of democratic institutions, even if progress is incremental. The continuity of elections reinforces the legitimacy of regional institutions and empowers the government with a genuine public mandate. While achieving a fully mature democracy may require significant time and effort, the ongoing nature of elections is vital in fostering democratic principles and ensuring the representation of the people's will.
The Kurdistan Region has the potential to hold a significant position in the broader region, given its achieved level of autonomy. However, the erosion of its institutions and doubts regarding their legitimacy are alarming. Political elites have become increasingly disengaged, prioritizing superficial appearances on social media platforms over addressing pressing regional issues. Furthermore, a recent ruling by the Iraqi Supreme Court, deeming the extension of the Kurdistan Region's parliament as unconstitutional, further undermines the region's institutional legitimacy. These factors contribute to a weakened sense of identity and autonomy, posing a threat to the stability of the Kurdistan Region as a whole.
It is disheartening to witness the public's indifference towards the delayed elections in the Kurdistan Region. The population, burdened by daily struggles, has grown disillusioned with democracy and apathetic towards political involvement. The absence of faith in the possibility of meaningful change within the current environment has silenced the working class and reduced overall participation. Furthermore, the limited media freedom has led to the disappearance or forced exile of critical voices. Consequently, the lack of public engagement compounds the government's legitimacy issues and undermines democratic processes.
We risk moving towards a region where elections become irrelevant, and freedom of speech vanishes. The timely conduct of elections is of vital importance for government legitimacy. It fosters democratic principles, reinforces institutional credibility, and empowers governments with genuine public mandates. The Kurdistan Region, as a relatively successful entity within Iraq, must address the challenges and obstacles preventing the timely conduct of elections.
It would be hard to be persuaded by any argument claiming a legitimate reason for delaying elections in the Kurdistan Region. We can draw inspiration from our neighbors in Turkey, where despite the devastation caused by an earthquake resulting in the tragic loss of over 50,000 lives, the general elections were still held on schedule.
The entire diplomatic corps stationed in the Region are unilaterally calling on the Kurdish leadership, along with UNAMI, to hold elections on time and respect the electoral process. However, if these voices are ignored and the autonomy of the Kurdistan Region continues to erode, we will find very few allies willing to come to the region's aid and support. This is because we would have diminished any respect for them by completely neglecting our shared values.
The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rudaw
