How the KDP and PUK Stole Kurdistan’s Wealth

Shko Mohammad – Activist

For over 30 years, the Barzani and Talabani families have controlled Kurdistan, using the government as a tool to make themselves billionaires. Every major government contract, land deal, and oil sale is decided by a small group of powerful officials who take their share before the public sees a single benefit.

In cities like Erbil and Duhok, the richest people are not business pioneers but KDP ministers, governors, and security chiefs who have taken millions from public funds. Government projects are awarded to companies owned by their families, political allies, or those willing to pay them bribes. If a foreign company wants to invest in Kurdistan, they must secretly hand over a percentage to the ruling elite.

Even Kurdistan’s natural resources are not spared. Oil is smuggled, land is illegally sold, and foreign aid meant for the people disappears into private bank accounts. Meanwhile, ordinary citizens struggle with high prices, unemployment, and lack of services.

There is no justice because the courts, police, and security forces are controlled by the same corrupt system. Anyone who speaks out risks their safety, while the ruling families grow richer and more powerful.

This is not governance it is organized theft. And the people of Kurdistan are paying the price.