The Path To Democracy

The Path To Democracy The Stages of the Transitional Administrative Law Overview The Transition from the Darkness of Tyranny and Oppression to the noble goal of an Iraq ruled by law that reflects the will of its people does not happen over night. Every step counts. If a step were skipped, the whole transition could be sidetracked by the forces of oppression and terror. The Steps To A Just Government There will be four national elections before the end of 2005: • The first election, to elect a 275-member National Assembly, must take place no later than January 31, 2005—and earlier if possible. • At the same time, all Iraqi voters will elect governate councils— again not later than January 31, 2005. • Thirdly, a constitution written by the National Assembly must be presented to the people in a general referendum no later than October 15, 2005. • The fourth election, for a government elected under the terms of the new constitution, must be held no later than December 15, 2005. This fourth election will bring a directly elected government to power in Iraq. Elect a National Assembly The first election, to elect a 275-member National Assembly, must take place no later than January 31, 2005—and earlier if possible. Why? The National Assembly will be responsible for drafting the permanent constitution Elections of Governorate Councils At the same time, all Iraqi voters will elect Governorate Councils— again not later than January 31, 2005. Why? The Governorate Councils will be the local authorities. People can better shape government that’s closer to them. Referendum on The Constitution Thirdly, a constitution written by the National Assembly must be presented to the people in a general referendum no later than October 15, 2005. Why? Because if the people don’t like what the National Assembly has drawn up, this is their chance to say so. The Fourth Election The fourth election, for a government elected under the terms of the new constitution, must be held no later than December 15, 2005. This fourth election will bring a directly elected government to power in Iraq. Why? Because Iraqis deserve a directly elected government and this is how they get one. عاش العراق الجديد Long Live the New Iraq.