Baghdad: The Kurdish blocs in the Iraqi Council of Representatives issued a statement regarding the suspension of salaries of Kurdistan Region employees, considering it unconstitutional. They expressed shock and concern over the Federal Ministry of Finance’s decision to halt funding for these salaries starting this May, coinciding with the eve of Eid al-Adha.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Kurdish blocs highlighted the severe humanitarian impact on the region’s employees, who are facing dire conditions due to the Federal Ministry of Finance’s policies. The statement described the decision as a political attack that infringes upon the Iraqi Constitution, specifically Article (37/First/A), which ensures the dignity of citizens under all circumstances. Additionally, it accused the Ministry of Finance of selectively disregarding Article (14) of the Constitution, which mandates equality and justice for all Iraqi citizens.

The statement further urged the federal prime minister to swiftly intervene and release the withheld salaries, emphasizing that salaries are a constitutional right rather than a privilege. The Kurdish blocs insisted on a permanent resolution to the ongoing salary issues, stating that any delay or withholding constitutes unjust collective punishment. They also called on the president and Kurdish Ministers in the federal government to clarify their stance on the predicament facing Kurdistan Region employees.