Iraq's Governing Council rushes to complete interim constitution

[Barrett808]

BAGHDAD (AFP) - Iraqi leaders furiously debated a temporary constitution due to be delivered in the next 24 hours amid threats of revolt from the country's Shiite Muslim majority if the text fails to please.

Adding to the tension, some 100 ethnic Turkmen began a hunger strike in Baghdad to draw attention to their political rights in the transitional law.

The US-picked Governing Council aims to finish the legislation by Saturday, but protracted disputes over the role of Islam, women and federalism in a new democratic Iraq (news - web sites) envisioned by the Americans threaten to delay the process.

The 25-member body has given mixed messages on whether the work will be completed by February 28, the deadline spelled out in a November agreement with the US-led coalition, clearing the way for sovereignty at the end of June.

Despite eagerness on all sides to make the finish line, "until, there is an agreement, everything is in flux," cautioned one source close to the negotiations. "This is a sensitive time."

(more)

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/afp/20040227/wl_mideast_afp/iraq_us&cid=1514&ncid=1480

[saigon68]

1. Their "New " currency will the CHIMPANZEE on the front

And say "In Halliburton We Trust" on the back.