AP Exclusive: Iraq deal gives (Shiite) clerics final say

[sabra]

Source: AP

BAGHDAD — An agreement signed by Iraq's two main Shiite blocs seeking to govern the country gives the final decision on all their political disputes to top Shiite clerics, according to a copy obtained by The Associated Press on Wednesday.

If the alliance succeeds in forming the next government, the provision could increase the role of senior clergy in politics. The provision would likely further alienate Iraq's Sunni minority, which already feels excluded by Shiite dominance and had been hoping that March's election would boost their say in power.

The newly announced alliance between the Shiite blocs practically ensures they will form the core of any new government and squeeze out the top vote getter, the secular Iraqiya list, which was largely backed by Sunnis. But the terms of the alliance show the deep distrust between the two Shiite partners and seek to limit the powers of the prime minister.

A leading member of the prime minister's coalition who signed the agreement on Tuesday confirmed it gives a small group of clerics led by Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani the last word on any disputes between the two allied blocs. He spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation.

Read more: http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hwK_CSpBxsNuVUEaDuOwmSSCiqGwD9FGN5B80

[no_hypocrisy]

1. Doesn't that mean Iraq is a theocracy is religion decides political issues?

[ixion]

2. Oh yeah, that's some democracy we've grown in Iraq

Not.

[Arctic Dave]

3. Religious warfare here they come.

The Saudi's are shipping weapons as we speak.

[dmosh42]

4. Our soldiers died to make another 'Iran'! n/t

[Soylent Brice]

5. *facepalm*