Sulaymaniyah: The President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), Pavel Jalal Talabani, has emphasized the importance of the rule of law following recent disturbances in Sulaymaniyah. He asserted that no one is above the law, addressing public concerns about the events that unfolded over the past week.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Talabani highlighted in a press statement the transformation of residential areas by a militia group into military camps, which posed threats to civilians and undermined the role of security forces. He expressed concerns about media competition, which he believes has misled public opinion instead of clarifying the facts.

Talabani insisted that the fate of those involved should be decided through legal processes within the democratic framework, avoiding speculation and misleading media narratives. He acknowledged the Kurdistan Region’s Asayish for publishing a report on the events to protect public interest and counteract misleading media campaigns, urging for an independent judiciary to operate without interference.

He cautioned PUK-affiliated media outlets against participating in unproductive media campaigns and reiterated the priority of safeguarding citizens’ rights and upholding the rule of law. Talabani concluded by urging the judiciary to act in accordance with law, justice, and transparency, ensuring individual rights are protected against militia influence.

The recent unrest included clashes between security forces and those guarding the People’s Front Party leader, Lahur Sheikh Jangi, further highlighting the need for legal resolution and judicial independence.