Iraqis Expect Strong Leader

On the eve of the critical parliamentary elections that will be held on December 15, Iraqis sketch a “happy picture” for the future. They believe the most important elements are a strong leadership and maintaining security. British broadcasting company, the BBC, ran a public poll conducted by the Oxford Research institution, the outcome of which reflects that 56 percent of Iraqi participants acknowledge that the situation in their country is bad; however, 64 percent think their lives will be better next year. In response to the question asking whether or not their lives will be better next year?” only 21 percent of participants responded negatively. Experts evaluating the survey said the atmosphere of “individual happiness” in Iraq cruises above the global average. Thirty-three percent of participants polled gave importance to the betterment of security in the country, and only three percent said they want a good government. To questions about the future attitudes of Iraqis changed, and when asked about their needs five years from today, 45 percent said “democracy”, and 31 percent said “a single and strong leader”. Seventy percent ask for central administration, while 18 percent want federative governing. In the polls conducted in April, 80 percent had asked for central government. Those who defend the separate states is recorded at nine percent. The poll was conducted with the participation of 1,711 households and responses changed from region to region. In the capital Bagdat (Baghdad) and Sunni regions, Iraqis prioritize “maintaining security and the US withdrawal”. In Kurdish regions, people ask for a “better life” and an “independent Kurdistan”. Shiites participating in the poll on the other hand reflected their wishes for “security, stability, and US pullout” equally. Hospitals in Iraq, military camps, and prisons have begun preparations for the election and polling centers abroad will start voting today (Tuesday). In Turkey, Iraqi citizens will be able to cast their votes at four centers in Ankara and Istanbul.

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