| I think the confusion comes from al-Jizz expecting something different... |
Confusion surrounds turnout statistics in Iraq's election, with the country's election commission backtracking on a statement that 72% had voted and top politicians insisting the turnout was high. The commission said its initial tally had been little more than a guess based on local estimates. "Turnout figures recently announced represent the enormous and understandable enthusiasm felt in the field on this historic day," a commission statement said. "However, these figures are only very rough, word-of-mouth estimates gathered informally from the field. It will take some time for the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq to release accurate figures on turnout." Commission spokesman Farid Ayar indicated that around eight million people may have voted, or about 60% of registered voters. That would still be more than many had expected. |