Barzani Seeks Stronger Kurdish Influence Ahead of Iraq Vote

Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani is working to strengthen his political leverage with Baghdad ahead of Iraq’s November 11 parliamentary election.

Though no longer in office, Barzani remains a central figure through his Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP).

The party is urging a high Kurdish turnout to secure greater influence in post-election talks on oil revenues and budget allocations with the Iraqi government.

A strong KDP performance would give the Kurdish region more bargaining power over financial and energy disputes that have strained relations with Baghdad for years. A weak result could instead bolster rival Kurdish factions and weaken Erbil’s position.

• Barzani Pushes for Greater Kurdish Power Before Iraq Election
• KDP Seeks Stronger Role in Baghdad Talks on Oil and Budget Issues
• Iraq Vote to Test Barzani’s Influence and Kurdish Political Unity

Barzani’s political career spans decades — from fighting alongside his father, Mulla Mustafa Barzani, to serving as president of the Kurdistan Region. He led the 2017 Kurdish independence referendum, which Baghdad rejected, leading to a federal backlash and the loss of Kirkuk.

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As Iraq heads to the polls, Kurdish representation could shape the next government and determine how much autonomy the region maintains. For Barzani and the KDP, the vote will test their ability to remain the dominant voice for Kurdish interests in Iraq’s political landscape.