Iraq’s new constitution, supposedly the blueprint for a democratic future, was threatening to drag the country into civil war last night.
The Sunni reaction was immediate, with politicians queuing to denounce the move and warning of a cataclysmic reaction. Soha Allawi, one of the leading negotiators, declared: “We will not be silent. We will campaign for public awareness to tell both Sunnis and Shias to reject the constitution, which has elements that will lead to the break-up of Iraq and civil war.” Another Sunni delegate, Hussein Shukur al-Fallu, said: “If they pass this constitution, then the rebellion will reach its peak.”
Iraqi drafter doubts Sunnis will support constitution in 3 days
The head of the committee drafting Iraq’s constitution said Tuesday that three days are not enough to win over the Sunni Arabs, and the document they rejected may ultimately have to be approved by parliament as is and taken to the people in a referendum.
From the proposed Constitution
Article Two: The political system is republican, parliamentary, democratic and federal.
1. Islam is a main source for legislation.
— a. No law may contradict Islamic standards.
— b. No law may contradict democratic standards.
Seems a bit contradictory to me.
PS 5 Calif. guardsmen face charges of abusing Iraqis.