Gorran in Crisis: Former Convict Takes Helm as Kurdish Opposition Movement Battles Internal Turmoil

The Gorran (Change) movement in Kurdistan is currently embroiled in a complex web of internal strife, leadership transitions, and ideological shifts that threaten its very existence as a political force. Once a formidable opposition party known for its staunch criticism of the dominant KDP and PUK, Gorran now finds itself grappling with a severe identity crisis and dwindling popular support.

Founded by Nawshirwan Mustafa, who positioned the movement as an alternative to what he perceived as Jalal Talabani's overly accommodating stance towards the Barzani family, Gorran initially captured the imagination of Kurdish voters. At its peak in 2009, the movement commanded an impressive 450,000 votes. However, its fortunes have drastically reversed, with support plummeting to a mere 20,000 votes by 2021.

This decline can be attributed to several factors, including ideological inconsistencies and controversial alliances. Despite its origins as a vocal critic of the established Kurdish parties, Gorran gradually developed closer ties with the KDP. This shift led to a perception of opportunism, resulting in the defection of many senior members to the very party they once opposed. The lack of a coherent ideological foundation made it easier for these individuals to switch allegiances, further weakening Gorran's position.

The death of Nawshirwan Mustafa marked a critical turning point for the movement. In the aftermath, it was revealed that Mustafa had placed almost all of Gorran's assets under the names of his two sons. This revelation set the stage for the current power struggle that threatens to tear the movement apart.

Recently, Gorran has attempted to navigate its leadership crisis by appointing Dana Ahmed Majid as its interim leader. Majid, a controversial figure in his own right, brings a checkered past to his new role. Formerly the governor of Sulaimani, Majid was sentenced to six years in prison in 2014 on charges of misappropriating drought relief funds and abusing his authority. However, under somewhat mysterious circumstances, his case was reclassified, and he was released on bail before leaving Kurdistan.

Majid's return to Sulaimani in July, after a decade-long absence, has raised eyebrows and sparked speculation. Reports suggest that he was granted amnesty, possibly at the behest of Iran, following a request to Kurdistan President Nechirvan Barzani. This international dimension adds another layer of complexity to Gorran's already tumultuous situation.

Despite Majid's appointment, the internal power struggle within Gorran continues unabated. The movement's previous leader, Omar Sayid Ali, whose legal tenure has expired, finds himself locked in a bitter contest with Nawshirwan Mustafa's sons over the question of succession. This conflict has escalated to alarming proportions, with allegations that Mustafa's sons have resorted to coercive measures to seize control of the movement's media outlets. Some accounts even suggest that they have enlisted the support of a PUK force to forcibly remove Omar Said Ali from his position.

The situation is further complicated by the control Mustafa's sons exert over Gorran's assets. This financial leverage gives them significant influence over the movement's future direction and resources, making any resolution to the leadership dispute all the more challenging.

As Gorran navigates these turbulent waters, its future remains uncertain. The movement that once promised change and reform in Kurdish politics now struggles to maintain its relevance and cohesion. The appointment of Dana Ahmed Majid as interim leader may be an attempt to stabilize the ship, but given his controversial history and the ongoing power struggles, it is unlikely that this move will resolve Gorran's deep-seated issues.