VP says 2010 elections kept distance from sectarianism

BAGHDAD /Iraqi News Iraqi Vice President Adel Abdulmahdi said on Sunday that the 2010 elections kept their distance from sectarian sentiments, noting the balance of powers is tipping in favor of the Iraqi people. “Compared the previous election, the election this time focuses more service and economic programs and are steering clear of any sectarianism or identity slogans,” Abdulmahdi said in statements after casting his vote on Sunday. He added that the democratic experiment in Iraq is “deepening with every election being held in the country,” noting the Iraqi people are sending “a clear message that they are going with all determination on the path of defending their freedom, independence and future through their participation in the election”. The Iraqi vice president called for avoiding any “attempts to rig the votes otherwise this would pose grave threat to Iraq’s political process altogether”. He believes that none of the lists vying in this year’s elections is going to make an overwhelming victory. “The forthcoming government will be one of coalition and national unity,” stressed Abdulmahdi. AmR (S) 4