Tribal leader worried vote in Tuz Khurmatu won’t be free or fair

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region – Insecurity means Tuz Khurmatu is not ready for an election campaign, a tribal leader warned.

Secretary General of Arab tribes of Tuz Khurmatu Saer al-Bayati has warned that since Peshmerga forces pulled out of Tuz Khurmatu last fall, the region’s security has deteriorated to the extent that it is not possible to hold a free and fair election campaign in the diverse town.

Bayati told Iraq’s Alghad Press that some parties in Saladin province are trying to coerce voters.

He also expressed concern that people who fled the area fearing clashes or persecution are afraid to return to vote because they may be accused of having allegiances with certain parties by local authorities and could be targeted as a result.

The tribal leader laid blame on the Hashd al-Shaabi, saying they do not run their affairs in a professional manner.

The town of Tuz Khurmatu fell completely under Baghdad’s control last October after Peshmerga forces pulled out. Thousands of Kurds fled the city fearing retribution at the hands of Shiite groups. A large number of Kurdish houses and properties were looted and burned down as reported by international rights organization, something the Kurdistan parliament named “genocide.”

Tuz Khurmatu is part of the disputed areas. It lies in Saladin province.

Kurds have never been able to gain enough votes to secure one of the province’s 12 seats in the parliament. There are Kurdish members on provincial council.

Iraqi parliament elections are scheduled for May 12.

Tribal leader worried vote in Tuz Khurmatu won’t be free or fair

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