ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq - US Ambassador to Iraq Alina Romanowski on Sunday stressed the need for a “free and fair” election process in the Kurdistan Region, while urging all civilians to partake in the elections and make their voices heard.

“It’s important for all eligible voters in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region to participate in the parliamentary elections and make their voices heard. Voting is the backbone of a successful democracy,” said Romanowski in a video statement.

The Kurdistan Region held its long-delayed parliamentary elections on Sunday.

Polling stations across the Kurdistan Region were opened at 7am and will close at 6pm. A total of 2,683,618 people are eligible to vote in the elections on Sunday.

“We also urge all political parties and actors to ensure the election is free and fair, without violence and intimidation, and that the election reflects the will of the people,” said the American ambassador, reiterating US’ commitment to supporting Iraq’s security, stability, and sovereignty.

A total of 1,191 candidates are vying for 100 seats up for grabs. Of this number, five seats are reserved for the minorities - three for Christians, and the remaining two for Turkmen.