Mullah Mustafa Barzani, appointed General of Republic, played a crucial role in the Kurdish national movement.
This year marks the 79th anniversary of the establishment of the Kurdistan Republic in Mahabad, a republic that, despite lasting only 11 months, left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire Kurdish pride. Its contributions include the national anthem Ay Reqib, the Kurdistan flag, and the name Peshmerga.
On December 22, 1946, corresponding to the 2nd of Rêbendan 1325 of the Kurdish calendar, the first Kurdistan Republic was proclaimed in the central square, Chwar Chra, of Mahabad with the participation of more than 20,000 people from all regions and sectors of the Kurdish population, under the leadership of President Qazi Muhammad.
During its brief existence, the republic laid the foundation for governance in the region. Education was conducted in Kurdish, a printing press was established in Mahabad, and various publications, including a newspaper and four magazines, were produced. Notably, the play Mother of the Nation was performed in Kurdish for the first time, and a radio station was founded.
During the time of the Kurdistan Republic, the Kurdistan National Army was established, which later became known as the Kurdistan Peshmerga Force. This name remains a sacred name within the Kurdish community. The national anthem “Ay Reqib” was adopted as the national song and the flag of Kurdistan was recognized, which later appeared on the government seals.
Key achievements of the Kurdistan Republic:
- The Kurdistan flag was officially raised.
- The national army was formed, introducing the name Peshmerga for the first time in Kurdish history.
- Significant attention was given to the Kurdish language, with the establishment of printing presses, the publication of books and newspapers, and the provision of Kurdish-language education in schools.
- Women’s issues were addressed through the creation of women’s organizations and the encouragement of women’s education.
- Political and economic relations were established with the Soviet Union and the Republic of Azerbaijan, and the agricultural products of Kurdistan were exported to the Soviet Union. The government’s budget system was based on taxes imposed on the citizens’ income.
The Barzanis, under the leadership of Mullah Mustafa Barzani, played a pivotal role in the establishment of the republic. Despite its brief duration, the Kurdistan Republic achieved numerous significant milestones. It stands as the first official and democratic Kurdish republic in history.
Mullah Mustafa Barzani, a historical Kurdish leader and figurehead of the Kurdish liberation movement, played a critical role in supporting the Kurdistan Republic with his forces. He was appointed general of the republic’s national army. Following the Barzan revolutions (1930–1945), Sheikh Ahmad Barzani initially led the Kurdish resistance. Later, Mullah Mustafa Barzani emerged as a charismatic and revolutionary leader. His expertise in guerrilla warfare and his commitment to Kurdish liberation contributed significantly to the republic’s efforts.
Mullah Mustafa Barzani was instrumental in organizing, educating, and training the Peshmerga forces, solidifying their role as defenders of Kurdish aspirations. Their participation in the Kurdistan Republic became a key chapter and a significant part of the Kurdish national movement.
The Kurdish Globe