Political factions in Iraq started their official campaign for the upcoming national elections, planned for January 30. Voters will elect a 275-member assembly that will select a government and formulate the country's constitution. Election officials said that about 80 blocs have registered to participate in the elections, including Sunni Muslim groups who have previously threatened to boycott the poll. There are strong fears that the voting process might be disrupted by the ongoing violence in the war-torn country. Many Iraqis also fear that the campaigning period will be targeted by rebels opposed to the polls.
| I'd call that a pretty realistic expectation... |
Up to 230 parties and groups, gathered into about 80 blocs or alliances must start campaigning amid the current chaos and the electoral authorities must establish voting centers across the country, including areas where violence is extremely high. |