Rebwar Fattah – activists
In the wake of the events of July 8, 2024, Bafel Talabani made a notable public statement:
“Give me one year, and then you may judge me.”
This declaration was seen by many as a pledge for reform, transparency, and leadership accountability. One year later, however, that promise appears unfulfilled, and the public has not seen the meaningful changes they were led to expect. As an independent civil activist, it is both my right and my responsibility to pose the critical questions that those in power must answer—especially when their decisions have had serious consequences for everyday citizens.
This essay seeks to outline the primary areas where Mr. Talabani’s administration has either failed or worsened the existing situation, based on documented facts, public records, and direct observation of developments within the region.
I. Land Seizures and Corruption
One of the most pressing concerns over the past year has been the illegal acquisition and sale of land. More than 21,000 land plots in Sulaymaniyah have reportedly been unlawfully seized under the justification of being designated for “Peshmerga” or “anti-terror” purposes. These lands were later sold, often through unofficial and non-transparent means. Authentic documentation exists to support these claims, and they raise urgent questions about the abuse of state authority and the exploitation of national defense narratives for personal or partisan gain.
II. Stalled Development and Infrastructure Breakdown
All 365 major development projects in Sulaymaniyah governorate have been suspended. This includes essential infrastructure such as the Slemani–Kalar highway and the Sadi Street project in the city center. Not only have these initiatives been halted, but their allocated budgets have also been eliminated entirely. As a result, public services have suffered, employment has declined, and economic activity has slowed significantly.
Moreover, the central leadership of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), under Talabani’s direction, has exerted disproportionate control over regional projects from Koya to Kalar. This centralization of authority has stifled local governance, prevented fair participation in development efforts, and allowed for deep-rooted political favoritism in project distribution.
III. Administrative Intimidation and Dysfunction
There has also been a troubling trend of political interference within administrative structures. Six directors-general in the Sulaymaniyah region have reportedly resigned due to pressure from senior party leadership. This type of coercion not only undermines institutional integrity but also creates an environment where public servants are unable to function independently or professionally.
Additionally, twelve large-scale projects are currently being implemented without any official permits. This indicates a collapse in regulatory oversight and further signals that law and order have been compromised in favor of unchecked profit and partisan interests.
IV. Economic Exploitation and Investor Fraud
In the economic sphere, at least eight investors have come forward alleging that they were defrauded or manipulated into financial losses. These accusations, combined with the broader stagnation of development, suggest that the region’s economic policy is not only mismanaged but also potentially exploitative.
Meanwhile, illegal importation of goods—such as liver, chicken intestines, yogurt, and even gold—continues without regulation. This illicit trade is taking place at border points like Parwezkhan, Bashmakh, Hani Dan, and Pshte, with some border zones even being closed due to the overwhelming volume of smuggling. The situation has become so severe that a portion of the border between Darbandikhan and Halabja has effectively shut down due to the inability to control smuggling operations.
V. Public Safety and Political Violence
Over the past year, there have been major security incidents, including large-scale explosions and targeted killings of prominent individuals. These acts of violence have instilled fear among citizens and highlighted the government’s inability—or unwillingness—to maintain public order and ensure safety.
Moreover, reports indicate a rise in the arrest, harassment, and censorship of journalists, activists, and opposition voices. Digital surveillance, hacking, and threats have become increasingly common, while the space for free expression continues to shrink.
Political repression has also intensified beyond the Kurdistan Region, with an increase in the killing, arrest, and disappearance of individuals affiliated with opposition groups from Eastern (Rojhelat) and Northern (Bakur) Kurdistan.