Iran: Qazi Muhammad declares the independent people’s Republic of Mahabad at the Chuwarchira Square in the kurdish city of Mahabad. He is the new president, Hadschi Baba Scheich is the prime minister.

On January 22, 1946, a historic event took place in Mahabad, a Kurdish city in Iran. Qazi Muhammad declared the independent people’s Republic of Mahabad at the Chuwarchira Square, becoming the new president. Accompanying him in this new government was Prime Minister Hadschi Baba Scheich. This event holds great significance in the history of the Kurdish struggle for self-determination and regional autonomy.

The declaration of the Republic of Mahabad marked a turning point for the Kurdish people, who had long sought recognition and autonomy within the region. The Republic aimed to establish an independent Kurdish state in the western part of Iran. It was met with enthusiasm and support from the local Kurdish population who had long felt marginalized and oppressed by the central Iranian government.

One of the driving forces behind this movement was Qazi Muhammad, a charismatic Kurdish leader and follower of Kurdish nationalism. Qazi Muhammad had established himself as a prominent figure in the Kurdish nationalist movement, advocating for the rights and autonomy of the Kurdish people. His declaration of independence in Mahabad was the culmination of years of struggle and activism.

Alongside Qazi Muhammad, Prime Minister Hadschi Baba Scheich played a crucial role in the newly formed government. Both leaders had a vision for an independent Kurdish state that would secure the rights and well-being of their people. They sought to establish a government based on the principles of democracy, justice, and equality, ensuring a fair representation of all ethnic and religious groups within the region.

Despite the optimism and support garnered by the Republic of Mahabad, its existence was short-lived. The central Iranian government, led by Prime Minister Ahmad Qavam, sought to suppress and undermine the autonomy of the Kurdish region. The central government, fearing the potential fragmentation of the country, sought to maintain its control over the Kurdish population.

The Republic of Mahabad faced numerous challenges, both from internal and external forces. Internally, the government struggled to solidify its authority and establish effective governance structures. Externally, it faced opposition from neighboring countries, particularly Turkey and the Soviet Union, both of which had reasons to be concerned about the consequences of Kurdish autonomy in the region.

Despite these challenges, Qazi Muhammad and his government worked diligently to build institutions and promote the cultural and political identity of the Kurdish people. They introduced Kurdish language and culture into the education system, established political parties, and implemented social reforms aimed at improving the lives of the Kurdish population.

The legacy of the Republic of Mahabad continues to inspire and shape the aspirations of the Kurdish people. The event acted as a catalyst for future movements and the continued struggle for Kurdish autonomy. It brought international attention to the Kurdish cause and highlighted the need for recognition and respect for the rights of minority groups within larger nations.

Although the Republic of Mahabad was eventually dissolved by Iranian forces in December 1946, its memory remains a significant part of Kurdish history. The declaration of independence by Qazi Muhammad and the subsequent establishment of a Kurdish government marked a pivotal moment in the pursuit of Kurdish self-determination.

the declaration of the independent Republic of Mahabad by Qazi Muhammad and the appointment of Hadschi Baba Scheich as prime minister on January 22, 1946, was a significant event in Kurdish history. It represented the aspirations and struggle of the Kurdish people for self-determination and regional autonomy. Despite its eventual dissolution, the legacy of the Republic of Mahabad continues to inspire and guide the Kurdish people in their ongoing pursuit of recognition and rights.