On October 30, 2024, the Kurdistan region of Iraq conducted parliamentary elections, resulting in the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) securing 39 out of 100 seats. This positions the KDP to lead the next regional government.
The Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), the KDP's historical rival and current coalition partner, garnered 23 seats, while the New Generation party, the largest opposition group, obtained 15 seats. Voter turnout was reported at 72%, a notable increase from 59% in the previous election held in 2018.
These elections, initially scheduled for 2022, faced multiple delays due to ongoing disputes between the KDP and PUK. Despite the KDP's victory, the potential for complications in forming a new government remains due to the historical tensions between the parties, which have been sharing power since 1992.
The newly elected parliament will be responsible for appointing a president and prime minister, positions currently held by KDP leaders Nechirvan Barzani and Masrour Barzani.