Abadi’s campaign opens office in Sulaimani ahead of elections

SULAIMANI, Kurdistan Region - The Victory Alliance led by current Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has opened an office in the Kurdish city of Sulaimani.

“Parties are free to choose where they want to participate in elections because Iraq is united,” said Jamal Hamasahid, head of the office in a news conference on Saturday.

“Taking part in elections is a democratic right for any political party or alliance,” Hamasahid added. 

“Parties are free where they want to participate in elections. We believe Iraq is united.”

He also said they will open offices in all Iraqi provinces.

Abadi’s Victory Alliance, otherwise known as the 'Nasr' Alliance, has nine candidates in Sulaimani, three women and six men.

“Just like other parties, we look to win votes,” Hamasahid said.

He also added that they have no disagreements with any other parties, and they are friends with and respect all.

Campaigning for the May 12 elections began across Iraq officially on Saturday and in the Kurdistan Region on Sunday because of the Anfal anniversary, with 329 seats available to fill in parliament.