Backtracking on Democracy?

 

By Delovan Barwari

Changing the current political system of Iraq’s autonomous Kurdistan Region from one where citizens directly elect the regional president to one where the parliament is empowered to do so, is a step back from democracy.

The change, which is demanded by opposition parties and has been the most controversial issue in the Kurdish media for weeks, would reduce the powers of citizens and their involvement in the political process.

The opposition has been demanding an amendment to the draft constitution, which was overwhelmingly approved by 97 members of the Kurdistan parliament, and has been awaiting a popular referendum for final approval.

The current political system of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) is often referred to as a “true democracy” in the world of academia, because citizens vote directly for their presidential candidate. It places the authority in the hands of the people; it makes the politicians accountable and encourages community involvement in the political affairs and decision making.

In essence, the KRG’s political system is an amalgam of presidential and parliamentary systems. The president is head of the Kurdistan Region, possessing the highest executive authority, and is elected into office through popular vote. The prime minister is appointed by the majority block and has substantial powers over the cabinet. Moreover, the Kurdistan National Assembly, or parliament, is a democratically elected legislature.

Among other things, the timing of the proposal is highly inappropriate: The Iraqi Prime Minister, Nuri al-Maliki, has overtly consolidated state powers in Bagdad and has taken steps to eliminate and marginalize the Kurds and Sunnis. Thus, the central government and the KRG are in the midst of a deep political crisis.

Moreover, the Iraqi army and Kurdish military forces are at a near stand-off in the disputed areas. In such circumstances, the opposition’s initiative will likely elevate tensions in the Kurdish political arena, and can potentially weaken the Kurds.

The main opposition Change Movement (Gorran) has been leading the charge for the constitutional amendment.  Yet, in its internal dealings, it does not abide by direct vote: In Gorran's first National Assembly in January, members were appointed by the party chief, Newshirwan Mustafa, not by direct vote.

The rationale for changing the political system has no merits. Comparing the efficiency and success of the political system of the KRG and Baghdad proves the opposition wrong.

The parliamentary system in Baghdad is clearly not prone to dictatorship.  Maliki has been accused of dictatorship by his opponents and has repeatedly violated the constitution. Moreover, the central government has been completely dysfunctional, as its cabinet has not been able to function efficiently. The government has also been unsuccessful in providing basic services to citizens.

On the other hand, the KRG system of governance has proven to be a success story, even when compared to the entire Middle East.

The changes proposed by the opposition are worrisome and ought to be of major concern to the citizens of Kurdistan. A parliamentary system would minimize their influence and involvement in the political process. It would be a step back from democracy.