Hasan Shekhani, the Head of the KDP bloc in the Kirkuk Provincial Council, spoke with The Kurdish Globe about the current situation in Kirkuk and the disputed territories, which are known to fall under Article 140. He emphasized, “Coexistence must be maintained.”
Kurdish Globe: What has been done to implement Article 140, particularly in Kirkuk?
Hasan Shekhani: Article 140 is a constitutional obligation. In the past, we have made efforts to ensure its implementation, and we remain committed to fully reviving and pushing for its enforcement in the future. This article is crucial in determining the status of the Kurdish areas outside the Kurdistan Region’s official administration. Without implementing Article 140, there can be no genuine security or stability in those areas. Therefore, the only guarantee of peace and security in the disputed territories is the full implementation of Article 140.
Kurdish Globe: The KDP recently reopened its official Kirkuk-Garmian organizational office. Has this had any political impact on the city?
Hasan Shekhani: Nearly eight years after the events of October 16, the KDP reopened its organizational office in the Kirkuk-Garmian zone. Rest assured, our goal is to promote coexistence, peace, and service to the people of Kirkuk. The KDP has always been present in Kirkuk and will continue to be. The reopening of the office is an internal organizational matter, but politically, it is a positive step that strengthens unity, reconciliation, and the spirit of coexistence in the city.
The reopening of the KDP headquarters sends a message of fraternity and peace to all communities in Kirkuk. It also revitalizes the party’s organizational activities in a more positive direction. The KDP has always stood for mutual understanding and coexistence in the Kirkuk Provincial Council, and we reaffirm our commitment to working with all communities in the same spirit. Now more than ever, Kurdish unity is needed so we can collectively work toward harmony, stability, and solving outstanding issues. Whatever the past or present problems, the constitution must prevail, and we must return to its provisions.
Kurdish Globe: What steps have you taken regarding the return of lands belonging to Kurdish farmers?
Hasan Shekhani: The lands that have been unlawfully seized from Kurdish farmers by Arab settlers over many years must be returned to their rightful owners. Many Arab farmers claim that they have cultivated these lands for 30 years, but I stress that any land whose title deed is in Kurdish hands must be restored following the laws passed by the Iraqi Parliament. The law must be enforced to ensure justice is done and property is returned to its rightful owners.
Kurdish Globe: What is the KDP’s stance on raising the Kurdistan flag in Kirkuk?
Hasan Shekhani: Raising the Kurdistan flag is a great honor. The KDP has always championed this act. However, we also say that Kirkuk belongs to all of its residents, in all their diversity. We protect and serve this city together. Reopening the KDP headquarters in Kirkuk-Garmian is part of our effort to deepen unity and brotherhood in the city.
Our message to the political parties in Kirkuk is one of unity and coordination. Together, we must confront and resolve the challenges facing the Kurdish people in the area. The KDP has a specific plan for ensuring cooperation among all parties to advance Kirkuk. We do not draw red lines against any political group—we are focused on working together for the greater good of the city.
The current situation in Kirkuk is sensitive, and the KDP approaches it with a sense of seriousness and responsibility. We believe Kurdish unity is more important now than ever before.
The Kurdish Globe