Iraqi Federal Supreme Court Judge resigns, Turkmen parties announce election boycott

BAGHDAD / ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq — Amidst mounting controversy, Judge Abdul Rahman Zebari resigned from his position in Iraq’s Federal Supreme Court following the decision to eliminate minority quota seats in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). In response to the decision, Turkmen parties announced a boycott of the upcoming regional parliamentary elections, following a similar announcement by the political parties of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people.

Zebari voiced concerns over the Court’s deviation from federal principles, citing an expansion of federal authority’s exclusive powers. He criticized the Court’s interpretations of the Constitution, alleging violations of fundamental principles like federalism and separation of powers. His withdrawal stemmed from an inability to advocate for the region’s interests, recognized in multiple articles of the Federal Constitution.

In response, the Federal Court issued a statement downplaying the impact of Zebari’s departure, citing the continued presence of three judges to ensure the Court’s functionality.

Turkmen political representatives echoed Zebari’s sentiments, condemning the cancellation of quota seats as unconstitutional and detrimental to minority rights guaranteed under Article 49. The decision, they argued, undermines democratic principles in the region.

During a press conference, Karkhi Alti Barmakh, head of the Turkmen Democratic Movement, urged international and national stakeholders, including the United Nations, Iraqi leadership, and regional authorities, to intervene and reverse the court’s decision.