A member of the Iraqi Council of Representatives has criticized the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) approach toward Baghdad, arguing that the absence of a clear strategy and the paralysis of national institutions have exposed the Kurdistan Region to growing challenges.

Criticism of the KRG’s Approach Toward Baghdad

Asos Ali, a member of the Iraqi Council of Representatives, told Channel8 that political decisions in the Kurdistan Region are being made without consensus among political parties.

He said the current unfavorable situation is the result of these interactions with the Iraqi government and argued that, despite previous opportunities to reach agreements, the Region’s delegation only travels to Baghdad when facing direct pressure.

According to him, this reflects the absence of a consistent program or long-term strategy within the KRG.

Parliamentary Paralysis and the Call for a Strong Government

The MP described the failure to convene Parliament and restore its functions as a “major stain” on the Region’s reputation and called on the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) to reach a mutual understanding.

He stated that the PUK’s agenda centers on building a strong government and that this requires political openness rather than stubbornness.

He added that Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of PUK, has delivered a clear message and extended his hand to the KDP in the interest of the public, while warning that several international messages directed at the Region should be taken seriously for the benefit of the people.

Call for a Fundamental Agreement on Salaries and Domestic Revenues

Addressing the issue of the 120 billion dinars in domestic revenues and the salary crisis, Asos Ali said Erbil and Baghdad cannot continue exchanging messages through television broadcasts.

He called for a fundamental agreement and stressed that both sides should stop relying on the possible failure of the Iraqi Prime Minister or pursuing alternative political arrangements.

He argued that certain partisan interests should be set aside in order to protect salaried employees and resolve the ongoing issues.

ASYCUDA System and Concerns Over Revenue Transparency

In another part of his remarks, the lawmaker criticized the current operations at the Region’s border crossings, describing them as outdated and claiming that the KRG is reluctant to implement the ASYCUDA system.

He stated that the system is scientifically structured to eliminate opportunities for smuggling and to ensure transparent revenue tracking.

According to his view, failing to implement the system signals an intention to divert revenues away from public services.

Strengthening the Kurdistan Region’s Position in Baghdad

Concluding his remarks, Asos Ali stated that despite fluctuations in Iraq’s political process, the country continues to function as a state and remains capable of forming governments more easily.

He said it is essential for the KRG to strengthen its position in Baghdad and avoid giving the federal government reasons to continue dealing with the Region in its current manner.