IRBIL, Iraq — Residents of Iraq’s semi-autonomous northern Kurdish region went to the polls in long-awaited parliamentary elections Sunday under the shadow of ongoing rivalries, economic instability and unresolved disputes with Baghdad.

Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region voted on Sunday to elect a new parliament for the oil-rich region, where voters express concern over economic struggles and disenchantment with the political elite.

Iraqi Kurds participated in a long-delayed parliamentary election to choose lawmakers who will appoint key government officials in the semi-autonomous region. Despite weak opposition, the two main political parties are expected to maintain their power-sharing agreement.