Iraqi lawmakers pass new election law
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 5 November 2013 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Iraqi lawmakers pass new election law, 5 November 2013, available at: http://www.refworld.org/docid/528b688d14.html [accessed 25 September 2016] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
November 05, 2013
Iraq's lawmakers have passed a new election law after weeks of debate, paving the way for polls to be held next year.
Following the vote on November 4, parliament speaker Usama al-Nujaifi said: "The new law was produced by consensus, which makes it fair for all."
U.S. Vice President Joe Biden said the passage of legislation shows Iraq's leaders are committed to compromise and progress.
Voting on the election bill had been repeatedly postponed because of a dispute between Arabs and Kurds, who run their own region in the country's north.
Iraqi Vice President Kudhair al-Khuzaie issued a decree setting April 30 as the date for the general elections.
The vote is seen as a crucial test for the country, which has suffered from political deadlock and a sharp rise in sectarian violence in recent months.
Based on reporting by Reuters, AFP, and AP
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
