Killing and Kidnapping: The Profession of KDP and PUK

In the Kurdistan Region, the KDP and PUK parties use their military forces to eliminate perceived threats, perpetuating a cycle of violence and corruption.

For over 33 years, the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) have focused on enriching themselves and their descendants, amassing thousands of fighters to attack anyone perceived as a threat. This ruthless approach has turned killing and kidnapping into a security profession for these ruling parties.

Hundreds of such cases have reached the media, while thousands remain hidden in prison cells, where individuals suffer daily. The oppressive tactics of the KDP and PUK have created an atmosphere of fear and repression in the Kurdistan Region.

The Gorran Party, initially an opposition force aiming to reform governance, has suffered greatly under this regime. After joining the government, Gorran hoped to bring change but instead became victims themselves. Many of their ministers aligned with the KDP, weakening Gorran’s position and rendering them unwanted in society.

In recent days, a member of Gorran was kidnapped and tortured by Erbil security forces loyal to the KDP. The individual was later released due to political pressure, highlighting the dangerous and corrupt practices of the ruling parties. This incident underscores the perilous environment for activists and opposition members in the Kurdistan Region.