A press statement was held in Kirkuk against Iraqi forces’ policy of displacement against the Kurdish people in Kirkuk and its districts. After the demonstration, Iraqi forces detained two people.

Oppressive policies against Kurds are on the rise in disputed areas following the attacks by the Iraqi army and Hashd al-Shaabi forces under them on Kirkuk and said areas on October 16, 2017 using the September 25 referendum in Southern Kurdistan as an excuse. Iraqi forces are implementing “Arabisation” policies in Kirkuk and its districts.

Iraqi forces have resorted to policies left over from the Saddam Hussein regime and are pressuring Kurdish citizens in Kirkuk center, Dakûk district and its villages, the Sergeran territory and villages like Qadir Kerem and Palkane. Kurds in these areas say the regime forces are trying to crush them and protest these policies.

A press statement was held under the lead of civilian activists in Kirkuk city center against these policies by Iraqi forces. A large group of citizens were present in the demonstration where civilian activist Ethem Cuma gave a speech and said the proxy governor of Kirkuk Rakan Seîd is toying with the demographics in Kirkuk and its territories, and implementing “Arabisation” policies. Cuma said: “The rights our people achieved through thousands of martyrs are now attempted to be taken away from us. We will never accept these policies, and state once more that they will create immense problems in the future.”

After the press statement, Iraqi Federal Police forces attempted to confiscate the cameras of journalists. In the short scuffle that ensued, activists Ethem Cuma and Rizgar Cuma were detained.