Kurdistan Patriotic Union urges constitutional handling of Khanaqin, Diyala disputes

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Kurdistan Patriotic Union (PUK) parliamentary bloc has called for disputes in Khanaqin and Kurdish areas of Diyala province to be addressed in line with the Iraqi constitution and existing laws, citing concern over recent developments in the area. In a written statement, the bloc said civil and peaceful activities are a constitutional right and stressed that the language of force should be avoided in the region. It pointed specifically to Article 140 of the constitution and urged that Khanaqin and its surroundings be treated as a sensitive and special case. The PUK demanded the release of detainees and the cancellation of arrest warrants issued against politicians, activists and young people in the area. It also called for an end to demographic change practices and asked that Jalawla and Khara Tepe be upgraded to district status, while Saadiya and Khara Tepe should have their sub-district status revoked. The bloc said it was aware that residents of Khanaqin and Kurdish areas of Diyala were facing heavy pressure, and urged that their rights be defended calmly and within the constitutional framework. No further details on the specific incidents prompting the statement were immediately available.