A recent report by Dr. Yerevan Saeed, published by the New Lines Institute, examines the impact of the October 2024 Kurdistan parliamentary elections, revealing increased political fragmentation and governance challenges. The elections, which saw the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) win 39 seats and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) secure 23 seats, were shaped by legal reforms that altered power dynamics.

The PUK challenged electoral results in Iraq’s Supreme Court, leading to legislative changes that disrupted the KDP’s dominance. This has intensified political gridlock, affecting governance, economic stability, and the Kurdistan Region’s autonomy.

The report also highlights geopolitical influences affecting Kurdish politics, including shifts in U.S. policy, regional power struggles, and Iran’s waning influence. These factors contribute to uncertainty over government formation as parties struggle to negotiate power-sharing agreements.

Amid this turmoil, the KDP is leveraging policy initiatives, such as digital payroll reforms, to consolidate influence, while the PUK seeks new alliances to maintain political relevance.

The future of Kurdistan’s political stability depends on whether rival parties can prioritize dialogue and compromise over competition. The report urges the Iraqi federal government to remain neutral and calls on international stakeholders to support institutional and democratic reforms.

If fragmentation persists, Kurdish autonomy may weaken further, disrupting governance and economic development. However, evolving regional dynamics could push Kurdish parties toward cooperation to stabilize the region.

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