SRSG Kubiš Congratulates Kurdistan Region Political Parties for Signing Electoral Charter of Honour

“The credibility of the democratic process lies in the integrity of the electoral process. Thus, an effective Charter of Honour is essential to conducting the elections in a free, fair, impartial, transparent and credible manner,” SRSG Kubiš said.

The Special Representative urged the authorities in Kurdistan Region to ensure free and fair participation in the elections, and provide a safe and conducive environment for candidates to campaign freely in any part of the Kurdistan Region and open offices without any intimidation or persecution. He at the same time urged the political parties and candidates to respect the law and order, to conduct their campaign in a dignified way and without hate speech.

Mr. Kubiš called for further empowerment and participation of women in the political process. “For the inclusivity of the electoral and political processes, it is important for political parties and leaders to ensure a meaningful engagement of women as candidates, as voters and as future political leaders. Political Parties’ and leaders’ role is key in advancing women’s participation in elections and the political processes, including in placing them in leadership positions in the Council of Representatives and its Committees, and in the future Government,” he said in his remarks at the signing ceremony.

Mr. Kubiš referred to the Charter as a document that could be built upon in the future.

“This Charter could form the basis of a future law that could be enacted by the next elected Parliament,” he said.

“I call upon all signatories, the media, and all stakeholders involved in the electoral process to abide by the provisions of this Charter. The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), as an impartial partner, stands ready to support this process,” the SRSG further said.

“The document, for which the United Nations is acting as depository, remains open for signature,” he noted.