Middle East

Candidates Controversy as Presidential Race Kicks Off

Independent electoral commission says few of those competing for the post are eligible to do so.

Village Dwellers Drawn to City Slums

Drought and unemployment lead many to flee rural poverty.

Election Day in Iraqi Kurdistan

Sulaimaniyah Violence Fears

Some warn of post-election clashes if fraud is suspected at the polls.

Talks Snarled on Interim Status

Moscow meeting leaves sides no closer and many questions unanswered.

New Environment Ministry Faces Challenges

Many doubt whether ministry will have enough of a budget and clout to be effective.

High Stakes in Kurdish Poll

Looming parliamentary election could upset power balance in volatile region.

Kurdish Politicians Accused of Exploiting Saddam Victims

Campaigners in Iraqi Kurdistan urged to produce practical help instead of political slogans as election nears.

PUK and KDP Face Challenge

The new Change list threatens to limit power of region’s political giants in upcoming ballot.

KDP Flexes Muscles in Dohuk

As in 2005 election, party still by far the strongest force in the province.