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StrictI must admit that I wasn’t putting much faith at all in the Iraqi elections as a “turning point” in that country’s return to stability. I was afraid that too much of the population would see the elections as an American-engineered attempt to cement our influence on that country. I knew that elections were an important step, but I didn’t think that event in itself would really bring much of a change in attitude to ordinary Iraqis.
I was indeed very happy to read on Jan. 31 the glowing reports of the process which went off much better than it could have (or than was even generally expected), with throngs of voters literally risking their lives to take a part in democracy for the first time in generations. For once, the media actually seemed to be concentrating on the positive work we are doing in that country instead of presenting a one-sided story of death, destruction, and chaos. But I still didn’t think that one day would really have a lasting effect on the general population and their disillusionment towards their situation. There are still huge problems with the infrastructure (such as delivery of gas and electricity) that affect people’s lives each day.
However, MSNBC is reporting that there may very well be a sea change in attitudes since that day. Citizens now view the emerging police and national guard forces more favorably and have been providing better tips which have led to more arrests. A renewed sense of national pride has helped to dispel support for the insurgency and moderate some of the anti-American sentiment. And an Iraqi policeman named Abdul Amir, who gave his life to thwart a would-be terrorist bomber from attacking a crowd waiting to vote, has emerged as a new national hero.