Iraqi Constitution - Vote TODAY

[dcentity2000]

Iraq has gone to the polls!

Polls are closing in Iraq where people have voted in their millions to decide a constitution seen as vital to maintain the unity of the country.
Vehicles were banned from roads to prevent car bombings during the vote and troops were on alert.

Despite this, three Iraqi soldiers were killed in a roadside bombing north of Baghdad and several civilians were wounded in other violent incidents.

Kurds and Shias back the charter, which is opposed by most Sunni Arabs.

Up to 15.5 million voters had been expected to register their view on the charter before polls closed at 1700 (1400 GMT).

Source: BBC News

There HAS been violence unfortunately and there is a significant danger of the constitution being rejected.

The constitution (basically) entails:

• Iraq to be federal, parliamentary democracy
• Official languages to be Arabic and Kurdish
• Official religion to be Islam but religious freedoms guaranteed
•*Equal rights for all
• Independent judiciary
• Elections every four years

Other information:

• Voting between 0700 and 1700 (0400-1400GMT)
• 15.5m Iraqis registered to vote
• Security measures: Four-day public holiday, traffic ban and night curfews

However, many commentators have dismissed the vote; one is on record as saying, "This constitution is a sham and will not prevent a civil war".

For a more full spectrum of views received by the BBC, click here.

Good luck to them!



Rich::

 

[sodaseller]

I confess skepticism that this will effect much of a difference, but I retain hope

 

[dcentity2000]

I confess skepticism that this will effect much of a difference, but I retain hope

Ditto.



Rich::

 

[artvandelay]

I was glad to see a large Sunni turnout, even if they voted 'NO'.

 

[WDWHound]

I was glad to see a large Sunni turnout, even if they voted 'NO'.

I thkn that is the most heartening thing that happened today. If they can be brought into the process, the government that eventully results will have a better chance of surviving.