Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani is set to meet with Sunni Arab factions in Kirkuk on Thursday to address the formation of a local government in the province, according to a senior source cited by Iraqi media.

This meeting aims to resolve ongoing disputes that have hindered the establishment of a local government in Kirkuk, despite multiple attempts. The Kirkuk provincial council consists of 16 seats: seven Kurdish, six Arab, two Turkmen, and one Christian.

Political disagreements among Kurdish, Arab, and Turkmen factions have left Kirkuk without a governor for over six months since the elections. Each faction is vying for the governorship.

On July 11, the inaugural session of the Kirkuk provincial council was chaired by Rakan Juburi, the council's senior member, who emphasized the importance of broad participation in council activities. "Kirkuk holds great significance for Iraq, and its people have played a pivotal role in fostering coexistence within the country," Juburi stated.

Shakhawan Abdullah, deputy speaker of the Iraqi parliament, told reporters, "A Kurd will certainly hold the governorship, as Kurds have secured the majority of council seats." He highlighted an agreement among all communities in the province to jointly administer Kirkuk.

Political parties have one month from the council's inaugural session to reach a consensus on electing the governor, council speaker, and deputies.