BAGHDAD A spokesman says Iraq’s presidential council has agreed on a law that paves the way for U.S.-backed provincial elections to be held by the end of January.
BAGHDAD A spokesman says Iraq’s presidential council has agreed on a law that paves the way for U.S.-backed provincial elections to be held by the end of January. The spokesman for the panel, Nasser al-Ani, tells The Associated Press that the law has gained unanimous approval from the three-member panel and will be officially signed later Friday. Al-Ani says the panel led by President Jalal Talabani decided to approve the law on Monday but did not sign it due to Islamic holidays. The move is a breakthrough for U.S. efforts to promote national reconciliation after months of deadlock over power-sharing issues in northern Iraq. Iraqi lawmakers set aside the divisive issues of the oil-rich region around Kirkuk and representation of minorities. AP ______ Copyright 2008 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
About Post Author
