Mam Jalal's Presidency Code

Shiler Ghafur

Written by Shiler Ghafur, Member of the Kurdistan Parliament & Former Member of the Leadership Council of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK).

In  many  of  his  speeches,  conferences, and meetings, even within the PUK’s strategic vision, President Mam Jalal consistently championed a democratic, federal Iraq and the peaceful coexistence of all ethnicities. He was renowned for his  “flower  bouquet  policy,”  a  philosophy of compromise between diverse political forces that epitomised his political worldview.

From his early student days through his political career and eventual presidency, Mam Jalal united people around a shared pursuit of freedom. Following the U. S. overthrow of Iraq and the establishment of the new government, as well as throughout his two consecutive terms, this vision became  the  defining  agenda  of  President Mam Jalal. Drawing on his wisdom and experience, he united all  segments  of  society—the  influential, allies and political rivals—so that Iraqis could live in peace, liberated from fear, dictatorship, and oppression.

One of the most important codes of President Mam Jalal was rooted in his long history of struggle, reflecting his unwavering commitment to the liberation of the Iraqi people and the restoration  of  their  voice  in  governance. His vision extended beyond the Kurds, opposing a system that had long oppressed Kurds, Arabs, Turkmens, and any other political adversaries in its pursuit of survival. This inclusive approach laid the foundation  for  both  domestic  opposition forces and the world’s major powers to recognise the validity of Mam Jalal’s vision and support his success in the struggle for freedom and the end of dictatorship.

Following Iraq’s liberation, President Mam Jalal’s experience in uniting opposing political forces—particularl Sunnis and Shiites—proved crucial. In  drafting  Iraq’s  permanent  constitution, he worked not only to safeguard Kurdish rights but also to protect the rights of other ethnic minorities.  He  remained  steadfast in promoting a democratic, federal system to ensure the dignity and rights of all Iraqis.

Rebuilding peace after war,  establishing  democracy after the fall of dictatorship, fostering coexistence  after  bloody conflict, and restoring hope after years of suffering were among the formidable challenges he faced. Without President Mam Jalal, navigating these transitions would have been far more difficult, and the foundations for action might never have been laid. He made it happen successfully, but it is not being maintained as required.

Returning to Mam Jalal’s legacy remains vital for all Iraqis. Under his leadership,  hope  flourished,  the  language  of  hatred  gave  way  to  dialogue, and principles of peace and coexistence were established. This policy became the defining identity of Jalal Talabani’s Iraq, and we must return to it, for there is no alternative solution.

Reactivating those codes that brought numerous achievements to both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region represents a  return  to  the  rule  of  law,  constitutional governance, and a strong, inclusive state founded on these values—far removed from the hegemony of the majority or the imposition of self-serving agendas. These were the principles that defined an era known as Jalal Talabani’s Iraq.

For Iraq to regain stability, unity, and progress, adherence to the vision and principles of Jalal Talabani’s Iraq is not only necessary—it is the only solution.

The opinion piece was translated into English by PUKMEDIA Editor.