Kirkuk's new governor is set to officially assume his duties today, following the issuance of a presidential decree, in accordance with a power-sharing agreement that sets a defined and rotational term for the post.

Inauguration and Oath of Office

On April 21, Mohammed Samaan will formally take office as governor of Kirkuk, a day after receiving his appointment decree from Nizar Amedi, Iraq’s president. Samaan is scheduled to head to the Kirkuk courthouse to take the oath of office before proceeding directly to the governorate building to begin his duties. No official welcoming ceremony has been arranged.

A Time-Limited and Rotational Post

According to Channel8, under an agreement reached between the parties within the Kirkuk Provincial Council, Mohammed Samaan will serve as governor until the end of the year. On January 1, 2027, the governorship will pass to the Arab component, while several other administrative posts across the province will be reshuffled and handed over to the Kurdish component in return.

Council Vote and Post Allocations

On April 16, Kirkuk's administrative posts were redistributed in line with the August 2024 agreement. Mohammed Samaan was elected governor representing the Turkmen component, securing 12 votes from council members, while Nashat Shahwez was elected deputy head of the provincial council from the Kurdish quota with 14 votes. The process resulted in changes to 13 other administrative positions across the province.