Iraq: An election of many parts

The extent to which Iraq’s 30 April elections has been considered a successful democratic exercise largely reflects the environment in which it took place. At least 12 people were killed on the day, eight voters at polling stations in Diyala and Salah Ad-Din, and four soldiers, but given the extreme violence witnessed in recent months, the toll was better than many had feared.The election differed hugely in different parts of the country, however. In most Shiite provinces, voters experienced something like a regular democratic campaign. Security is good in most areas, and candidates were able to go out and hold rallies, talk to voters, and attend community events.