Today, the Iraqis pulled off quite an accomplishment. It was an awesome experience to be here during their successful provincial elections. A vast majority of Iraqis voted and there were no major attacks to disrupt the election. Today makes an even greater impression when you realize that the Iraqis did it themselves. They led all the planning, provided all the security, and executed the elections safely and correctly. It wasn't U.S. Soldiers & Marines keeping the Iraqi citizens safe while they voted, it was Iraqi Army (IA) and Iraqi Police (IP). It was very professionally done.
General Odierno made a great point today. This election marked the transition to "issues-based" politics vice sectarian politics. The electorate made it clear that they expect the elected leadership to address the problems with basic services. The Sunni's all came out to vote because they realized that their boycott of the last election really hurt them in political representation. They have become vested in the peaceful process of democratic government.
I truly expected large attacks on Iraqi voters by Al Qaeda and insurgents, although I hoped it wouldn't happen. You know the bad guys wanted to disrupt the election...the fact that they didn't/couldn't shows you how much the Iraqi Army and the Coalition has disrupted their operations. A great day for all Iraqis and for those of us here trying to help them make it all work.
(Photo: An Iraqi citizen proudly displays proof that he has voted outside a polling site in Jabella, Iraq, during the provincial elections in Babil Province on Jan. 31, 2009. Credit: U.S. Navy Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Wendy Wyman/Released)
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