Congressman Snyder Statement On Elections In Iraq

Little Rock – U.S. Congressman Vic Snyder (AR-02) issued the following statement today regarding the elections to be held in Iraq this Sunday.

“This weekend’s elections in Iraq are an opportunity for the people of Iraq to move their country forward another step toward a modern democracy.

“There are plenty of reasons to be pessimistic: the ongoing violence including the targeting of polls and election workers, Sunni reluctance to take part, the absence of international observers, and a security environment dramatically contrary to spirited campaigning. But there are, I believe, more reasons to be optimistic: Shi’ite leaders who have endorsed a secular and inclusive government; many of the parties running include candidates from more than one sect and ethnic group, a U.S. troop presence with unwavering commitment to a successful election, and a population weary of the status quo.

“Elections, at their best, create legitimacy for the elected government in the eyes of the populace and the world. Elections can help undermine insurgencies by showing those who passively support the insurgents that there are ways to have an impact on the political situation that do not include violence. No one should think that the Iraqi Sunni insurgents will suddenly put down their guns after the election. Violence will continue, maybe for a long time. But if the elections and the constitutional process that is supposed to follow go well they may help show the Sunni minority that there is a place for them in Iraq and that they have a political role to play.

“My expectation is that election day violence will shock those of us who live in a democratic tradition of peaceful transfer of power. But I believe that we will be amazed at the courage, resolve, and love of country of millions of Iraqis who stand in long lines, waiting to participate in this important step forward. They deserve our thoughts and prayers and would benefit from good fortune.”