In February 2015, Kurdish political elites gathered in Diyarbakir, Turkey, to discuss the future of Kurdish politics. Among them were Azad Jindani, a leader of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), and Farhan Jawhar, a member of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP). This meeting highlighted the significant absence of two influential figures in Kurdish politics: Jalal Talabani and Nawshirwan Mustafa, both of whom passed away in 2017. Their deaths have left a noticeable void in the political landscape of Iraqi Kurdistan, particularly affecting the PUK and the Movement for Change, the latter of which has seen a decline in influence since its peak in the 2013 elections. As the political dynamics shift, the emergence of new leaders like Bafel Talabani signals a departure from the legacy of older generations, with a focus on personal and party interests that may overshadow Kurdish unity and aspirations.
Masoud Barzani, the former president of the Kurdistan Region, remains a pivotal figure in Kurdish politics at the age of 78. His longstanding experience and influence have positioned him as a key player in navigating the complexities of Iraqi governance and Kurdish interests. Barzani's role has been crucial in maintaining the rights of the Kurdistan region within the Iraqi constitution and in managing relationships with both Baghdad and neighboring countries. His leadership is seen as essential for resolving internal Kurdish disputes and preserving the region's political influence. As Kurdish parties grapple with the absence of their founding leaders, Barzani's enduring presence is viewed as a stabilizing force, vital for the future of Kurdish political aspirations.
