Since no good news from Iraq is reported in the mainstream American (or European) press, we have to go to the source: Haider Ajina sends us this translation of an article that appeared yesterday in the Iraqi newspaper Annabaa:

The average Iraqi on the street insists on having the elections on time and is excited about participating.

For the first time in Iraq’s modern history, Iraqis are taking interest in their country's election. Iraqis have heard and read about free and fair elections in other countries and now they stand at the doors of their own election.

We visited the streets of Najaf and asked some people about the elections.

Mr. Thual ( age 18) said: "I and my whole family will participate in the elections. It is our country and it is our duty to build it and keep it. If we slack then who will build or protect Iraq? I believe the elections will be successful and turnout will be big."

Mr. Abed Azuhra said: "I will participate in the elections because they are free and fair. Then we asked, "How do you know they are fee and fair?" His answer:

"I have seen the previous elections, they were mandatory, with only existing government officials on the ballot and only one president 'Saddam.' The baathists cut our rations if we did not vote. There has been a fundamental change in Iraqi government, this government is for the people. This government invites and asks us to vote they do not threaten us. I wish the security situation were better. But it will not stop me from voting."

Mr. Jaafar said: "This election will decide Iraq’s destiny. The elections are an important step toward safety, stability and Iraq’s complete sovereignty. Voting is a civic requirement, elections insure the rights of citizens, guards their unity and ends occupation (by its own or outside governments). We will all participate, women and men."

Abed Al-Sabbag said: "The most important thing now are the elections. They are the only avenue to the solution of the problems of appointees. The terrorists and naysayers, first said that the Iraqi interim government under Bremer was illegitimate because the coalition forces picked it out. Then they rejected the interim government selected by U.N. as being illegitimate, (even though the naysayers asked the U.N. to pick the government). So let us see what they will say after the elections. I am sure they will find something. The terrorists and naysayers do not want to give up power. The days of taking power by force are gone."

Posted by John at 09:58 AM  |    |  

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Tracked on November 9, 2004 06:19 AM