Courtesy Photo | Key leaders in the community including Iraqi security forces and elected...... read more read more
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By Capt. Adam Scher
3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division Public Affairs Office
YUSIFIYAH, Iraq – A U.S. civil affairs team took a step Apr. 16 towards bringing responsive government to the people of Yusifiyah .
The team, attached to 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), began assessing schools and community centers to serve as voter registration and polling sites for upcoming provincial elections in October.
The majority Sunni population in the area declined from participating in large numbers during previous elections.
"The Sunni tribes in this area were concerned about potential Shia oppression in the early months and years following the collapse of the Ba'ath party – we have worked hard to convince these people that their problems and concerns are more effectively reconciled through the ballot box than through persecution or violence," said Capt. Bill Koski, CA team leader.
By capitalizing on security successes over the past several months, the upcoming elections present an opportunity to connect people with their government through civic participation and voting.
Currently, the Yusifiyah Nahia council meets regularly to discuss expansion and enhancement of the elected government to respond to the essential service requirements of its community.
The council is continuing to grow in support and capability due to the commitment of the elected representatives, tribal and religious leaders, Iraqi army and coalition forces.
In addition to engaging established leaders, the CA team spreads its governance message to all sectors of the populations. The theme of these meetings centers on the notion "democracy is not a spectator's sport."
The team aims to inform the community that it is only through their dedication and active participation that a democratic government accountable to the people can form a long-term peace in Iraq.
| Date Taken: | 04.20.2008 |
| Date Posted: | 04.23.2008 09:09 |
| Story ID: | 18669 |
| Location: | YUSUFIYAH, IQ |
| Web Views: | 158 |
| Downloads: | 133 |
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