Threats Delay Vote Preparations in Mosul

[maddezmom]

BAGHDAD, Iraq - Death threats have chased away four elections officials in Mosul, stalling preparations for the vote in the northern city. Insurgents have torched election materials and a militant group believed to operate in Mosul has warned Iraqis not to participate in the election.


AP Photo



Iraq (news - web sites)'s third-largest city is already getting a taste of what many across this country fear may happen to Iraq's democratic transformation: insurgents using force and intimidation to try to hinder nationwide elections scheduled for Jan. 30.


"Nothing has happened so far regarding (preparations) for the elections," said Deputy Gov. Khasro Gouran in a telephone interview from Mosul. "The (electoral) commission is lagging so far behind in its work, unlike in other cities such as Najaf and Irbil," referring to Shiite and Kurdish areas where security is better.


"Former regime supporters ... are doing all that they can to stop the elections process," Gouran added.


Iraq's Electoral Commission on Sunday set national elections for Jan. 30, and a spokesman said ballots would be cast nationwide, including in areas now wracked by violence.

more:http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=540&ncid=736&e=6&u=/ap/20041122/ap_on_re_mi_ea/iraq_mosul_elections

[UL_Approved]

1. I wonder what the real plan is here

I wonder if the elections are being stopped (or trying to be stopped) because of Iraqi desire, or because of back-handed Bush strategy?

[maddezmom]

2. if the current assassination/arrests keep the same pace

there won't be any Sunni's to protest or vote. :(


Gunmen Assassinate Sunni Cleric in Mosul

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=540&ncid=736&e=7&u=/ap/20041122/ap_on_re_mi_ea/iraq_mosul_assassination