Victory For Iraqi Democracy

Iraqis have voted enthusiastically in a peaceful and apparently free and fair poll that is widely being seen not only as the country’s hopes for democracy but also its test of stability.

In the first nationwide elections in three years and perhaps its first truly democratic vote, the trust reposed by the Iraqis in democracy and its power to change is a good omen. This is a great victory for Iraqi people and a celebration of democracy.

The elections to the 444 seats in 14 provinces, contested by more than 14,400 candidates, saw grass roots democracy at play with many newcomers trying their luck. They campaigned vigorously on socio-economic issues, putting aside issues like foreign occupation and security and political matters. Foreign investment, tax concessions and political reforms were salient features of many manifestos. Even though this is Iraq’s first provincial elections, this focus on domestic issues can go a long way to harness a broad-based nationalistic outlook by allaying fears about the country’s Balkanization along sectarian and ethnic lines.

The most striking feature of the polls, apart from a 62 per cent turnout, is the emergence of Prime Minister Nouri Al Maliki as an icon of new Iraq and its unity. By asserting himself in his dealings with both the Americans and Iran-backed Shia alliance, Maliki has gained the confidence and respect of both the Sunnis and the Shias. Which is perhaps why the Sunni community that largely stayed away from the first parliamentary election has been part of the provincial polls. Exit polls suggest Maliki’s Dawa’a Party, though a small and negligible force as compared to the Supreme Islamic Iraqi Council, as well as the resurgent Mehdi militia of Moqtada Al-Sadr, has made enough inroads as a viable political force. Maliki, a virtual nobody when he took over as Prime Minister, has to his credit successfully negotiated an early exit of coalition forces and considerably improved security situation. So whichever way the provincial polls go, they will benefit the prime minister.

However, Iraq has a long way to go as it embraces complete sovereignty with the exit of coalition forces and builds a national army and police force. People’s trust in parliamentary democracy, after decades of autocratic rule, should see strengthening of democratic institutions and a new era of communal harmony in Iraq’s otherwise divisive social landscape.