Significance Co-leader Lahur ‘Sheikh Jangi’ Talabani on July 19 formally handed over his powers to his cousin and co-leader Bafel Talabani, who had moved comprehensively against him during the preceding week. Bafel was backed by the PUK's old guard, which resented marginalisation by Lahur. Impacts Lahur’s recent alliances with the Gorran party and local tribes in KDP areas could be weakened. A common front in Baghdad would strengthen the KRI in budget talks and post-election government negotiations. Bafel might be cooler towards the Syrian Kurds and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which would benefit Turkey. Lahur retains some popular support and is likely to plan a comeback, possibly via a new party, trading on Iran links.