Editorial: Federalism and the Silent Majority

The next session of parliament will see a hot debate on the issue of federalism, as provided for by the Iraqi constitution. In recent days it has become apparent that political blocs are divided on federalism for central and southern of Iraq. Those in favour argue that it is constitutional in that it is in accordance with the wishes of the majority of Iraqis in these areas, and would restore rights the people there have lost and provide them with better services. Those against the move say that it is premature, and that it will create sectarianism and divide the country at a time when it is too weak to protect itself from domination by neighbouring states. Another plan under discussion is to establish regional governments for every governorate. The anti-federalists divide into two groups, one which wants foreign forces to withdraw before federalism comes onto the agenda; the other is threatening to quit the political process and derail the national reconciliation plan. The strange thing is that neither group has considered putting the matter to the people in a referendum. We wish members of parliament would make the national interest their priority, not victory or defeat in a political battle.