Iraqi Democracy Finally Established

Following months of difficult political talks which often resulted in standstill, new Iraqi leaders were finally sworn into office yesterday.

Nouri al-Maliki has been appointed as Prime Minister of the troubled country for his second term during a meeting of the nation’s parliament on Tuesday. 31 ministers were also voted into his cabinet out of the 42 which will ultimately form the new leadership. It is the first time that the Iraqi government will include representatives of all major religious factions, and it is hoped that this inclusive policy will put an end to the political power games of the last five years. Secular Shiite leader Ayad Allawi, who had previously claimed rights to Maliki’s position, has now promised to work with the government in the spirit of cooperation.

Most of the main politicians who have had a part in the formative years after the defeat of former dictator Saddam Hussein were present at the meeting. The mood in the room was described as one of jubilation.

US President Obama has celebrated the recent news as “a significant moment in Iraq’s history”. However, some commentators such as the Washington Post have noted the extraordinary length of time it has taken for all parties to agree on governmental structure may be indicative of how counter-productive it may be to represent all factions.

Reported by Claire Blackhorne.

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