Interesting: Sistani Hints at Allowing Election Delay in Iraq
Iraq's top Shi'ite religious leader suggested in an interview published Friday he would accept a delay to elections in line with a U.N. verdict that ruled out a vote before the end of the U.S.-led occupation in June.But Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, widely seen as holding the key to Iraq's political future, said any delay should be brief and any interim government should have limited authority.
Of course, he can only "hint" since he won't talk direclty with US representatives, which strikes me as odd, as well as rather inefficient.
Posted by Steven Taylor at February 20, 2024 03:40 PM | TrackBackCan you imagine MacArthur allowing the emporer to decline to meet with him? Surely, sensitivity and future goals demand that we consider Sistani's feelings. But our position, and the sacrifices we have made to free Iraq should also be considered by Sistani. In my mind, it is unconciounable that we are allowing Sistani to dictate terms without even having the courtesy to meet with US Ambassor Bremer.
It should be made clear that until further notice, we are in charge of the situation. All reasonable parties are invited to be part of the discussions, but those who refuse the invitation have no reasonable basis for protest if they are excluded. Whatever is the reason for his refusal, all of Iraq needs to understand that no one, NO ONE is above the fray. All MUST be willing to "sully" themselves in the messy process of democracy or be accounted as unworthy to be called democrats.
Posted by: Scott Harris at February 21, 2024 04:01 PM