I have been reading the various reactions to the Iraqi elections. It seems that Iraqis abroad and in Iraq have a different view on the elections.

Election reactions:

I’ve just returned from the polling station. To my surprise, a large number of people have shown up to vote: men and women, Muslims and Christians, Sunnis and Shias. Terrorists have threatened voters in my neighbourhood to choose between their life or election. Still, none of the voters seemed to be afraid. To me and to many Iraqis, I think, it is a matter of life and death to this wounded country. It is the unbending will of man that can never be defeated by terror.
Iraqi Woman, Baghdad, Iraq

I am delighted today to cast my vote and attempt to make a difference for our beloved country. This is only the beginning of the road to democracy. We cannot achieve democracy overnight. If anything this is our vote against Saddam’s tyrannical brutal dictatorship. This is our vote against the Baathists thugs who are trying to use fear and violence as their last resort. And finally a vote to tell our neighbouring countries to stop interfering in our destiny. Iraq is for Iraqis and we shall march to democracy.
Omar Barzanji, Dubai- United Arab Emirates

I am fed up with the stupid analysis of non-Iraqis about the legitimacy of the elections. Yes, the elections in Iraq are legal and representative. If you don’t believe me then look at the happy faces of Iraqis who have voted. The people of Iraq have spoken. Iraq will not be the first country that holds elections under occupation or under the shadow of violence (examples like Palestine, Kosovo, Bosnia, East Timor, Germany, Austria, Japan, Sri Lanka and Columbia come to mind) nor will it be the last.
Mohammad al Zubaidy,

But then, there are doubters.

Does Bush think that this will create democracy in Iraq? Do you think the Sunnis will stop this war on the invaders? Well all I can say is that Bush, you made a stupid mistake. This is not creating democracy but forcing democracy.
Jalil Alkozai, Essex, UK

And moonbats.

This is basically a good step for Iraqis but the presence of US occupation only makes this an imperial attempt to show who is boss in the Middle East. “Bushinisation” will never succeed in the world, free or not free.
Reggie Deighton, Englewood Florida USA

This election is a game for Bush administration. It’s success will result to an economic boom for US.
Maical, Paris, France

Yes, an economic boom for America (Says the guy who lives in a paradise riddled with chronic high unemployment, high taxes, and faltering public services).