stratego
Trying to be good.
I have absolute faith in Bush that the election outcome would be satisfactory to the administration. He has proven to the American public that he can do it before; no reason why he can't do it again.
I'm not talking about what is acceptable to the US. I am talking about what is in the long-term interests of a free and democratic Iraq. As strange as it may seem to some of you, giving the people want they want is not necessarily the best thing for them. This is especially true for a new and emerging democracy that has little or no history of it. It lacks the fundamental institutions of democracy and it lacks the public commitment vital to its survival. Iraq is currently not ready for a full fledged democracy free from foreign involvement.Originally posted by bobgote
we're talking about what would be acceptable to the US here, and Mr.Pres is absolutely right. if there is a chance the US wouldn't win a vote, they would (rightly, and sensibly) not go down that path. It would be stupid.
Originally posted by dvandyke
Lets put an pro-western strong man in power who will rule the country with an iron fist. We cannot have an Islamic regime in such an important strategic location. I can think of a suitable candidate with vast experience who was found in a hole this week. Give him a slap on the wrists, a shave and no-body will know any different.
Any elections held in Iraq must be completely free and the US must accept the outcome. The suppression of Arab people must stop now if we are to combat fundamentalism.
If Islamic people want an Islamic government then who are we to stop it?
Originally posted by EzInKy
Obviously the Islamic leaders want an Islamic government, but how can you be sure the same holds true for the people if their individual rights aren't guaranteed?
Originally posted by dvandyke
That is why we need a free election but the demographics of the country make it very likely that an Islamic government would be elected. If they vote for an Islamic Party, Labour, Republican, Communist or even the Bath Party then the vote has to be accepted by Washington.
Originally posted by dvandyke
This is the very reason why imposing democracy by force is impossible.
Originally posted by dvandyke
Sure.
Do you think it would be ok for 2 parties to rule forever?
Originally posted by Enemy Ace
@ezinky: It would seem Muslim women enjoy having little to no rights and being possessions of men.
Originally posted by dvandyke
You missunderstand me I have nothing against Iraqis enjoying freedoms. I just think they should be totaly free to choose ANY govenment thay wish.