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The Kurdish authorities in Syria have announced the postponement of municipal elections, originally scheduled for June 11, until at least August. This decision comes in response to requests from political parties and alliances who raised concerns about the short campaign period.

The elections, which would have been the first to extend to all seven regions under the semi-autonomous region’s control, have sparked controversy both domestically and internationally. Local officials and candidates argue that the elections are essential for local representation and improving public services in the region. However, critics have accused them of separatism and monopolizing power, while others doubt the conditions for fair and free elections exist in Syria’s Kurdish-held northeast.

The ruling Democratic Union Party (PYD) and around 18 other parties, as well as independents, are expected to participate in the elections. PYD co-chair Saleh Muslim cited “internal” reasons for the delay but acknowledged that political circumstances may have also played a role in the decision.

Turkey, a fierce opponent of the PYD and its armed wing, the People’s Protection Units (YPG), views the upcoming polls as evidence of separatism. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has threatened to launch a new operation to prevent the election from taking place, describing it as an “aggressive action against the territorial integrity” of Ankara and Damascus.

The United States, a key ally of the Kurdish-led forces in Syria, has also expressed concerns about the elections. The US State Department spokesman Vedant Patel emphasized the importance of free, fair, transparent, and inclusive elections in Syria, stating that the conditions for such elections are not in place in northeastern Syria. The US has urged local authorities not to proceed with the elections.

The postponement of the Kurdish municipal elections has not only sparked tensions with Turkey but has also raised questions about the future of democracy and governance in the region. As the situation continues to unfold, all eyes will be on Syria’s Kurdish authorities and their next steps in this complex political landscape.