Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) President Bafel Jalal Talabani reaffirmed his party’s commitment to reform, social justice, and stronger federal relations during an Iraqi parliamentary campaign rally in Erbil on Saturday.

Addressing a large crowd, Talabani said the PUK is determined to reach a lasting agreement with Baghdad on key political and financial issues, stressing that “the PUK was the reason salaries were sent from Baghdad.”

He pledged that the PUK will not join any government that fails to serve all parts of the Kurdistan Region, adding,

We will repair relations between Erbil and Baghdad and ensure the rights of our people through dialogue and diplomacy

Turning to local issues, Talabani said that while Erbil has witnessed major development projects, freedom remains lacking.

Many buildings and streets have been built in Erbil, but there is no freedom

he said, adding that real progress requires justice, transparency, and equality.

He also highlighted the economic pressures facing citizens, saying “electricity and fuel have become more expensive because of smuggling and theft,” and pledged that his party will work to combat corruption and stabilize energy prices.

The PUK president reminded supporters of his party’s role in reforming the electoral law and granting Halabja official provincial status, describing it as

a historic step for justice and recognition

Talabani also underscored his party’s social commitments, declaring that the PUK would be “the defenders of Kurdistan’s Christians and the true representatives of the Turkmen community.”

He concluded by saying that the PUK’s vision for the next stage is one of reviving the economy, cleaning Erbil’s environment, and ensuring freedom and dignity for all citizens across the Kurdistan Region.