socialmedian: Iraq Electoral Law Passes, Crucial To Setting Up National Vote

User-submitted headlines for this story

Clips

Iraq Electoral Law Passes, Crucial To Setting Up National Vote

Source: Huffington Post

Nov 08, 2009

Summary

BAGHDAD — Iraq's parliament passed on Sunday a long-delayed law in a crucial step to setting up nationwide elections, which the head of the electoral commission expected would still be held in January.

The decision appeared to resolve a key sticking point – who will be allowed to vote in the disputed, oil-rich city of Kirkuk. U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill could be seen shuttling between various political factions before the law's passage, showing Washington's concern's over the debate and whether an election delay could hold up an American troop withdrawal.

President Barack Obama, speaking at the White House, welcomed the new legislation.

"This is an important milestone as the Iraqi people continue to take responsibility for their future. I want to congratulate Iraq's leaders for reaching this agreement," Obama said. "The United States will continue to stand with Iraq as a strong partner and as a friend."

The U.S. ambassador, speaking to reporters after the vote, said the American troop drawdown will proceed as scheduled. Military commanders have said

...Read the full article

Comments (0)

Add Your Comment