In Interviews, Iraqis Profess Ignorance About Law's Details

[kskiska]

BAGHDAD, March 8 -- They knew that a national constitution was being drafted. They had heard vaguely about disagreements among the officials writing it. But for many ordinary Iraqis, the details and the significance of the document, which was signed Monday and billed as a framework for self-rule, remained largely a mystery.

In several interviews in Karrada, a crowded commercial district in the Iraqi capital, the dominant theme was ignorance of the interim constitution's basic features, even among those who said they watch and read the news regularly. Those who were familiar with the outline of the new law said they doubted it would produce political stability and democracy after the U.S. civil occupation officially ends on June 30.

Most Iraqis interviewed could not name any of the constitution's 63 articles and did not know that they included a bill of rights or provided for a federalist and republican form of government.

"We must read it first, before we know what to think about it," said Ahmed Hassan, 35, who runs a small perfume shop.

Hassan said the local news media have provided little information about the constitution. His wife, Khadijah Radhi, 30, agreed. "It wasn't on television or in the paper," she said. "Until now, we didn't know what were the points of disagreement."

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http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A41491-2004Mar8.html

[daleo]

1. I doubt they see the point in learning its details

It seems doubtful it will outlast the U.S. occupation - it might has well been written with an etch-a-sketch.

[I AM SPARTACUS]

2. "We must read it first, before we know what to think about it,"

said Ahmed Hassan, 35, who runs a small perfume shop.

Ahmed, I think after that you read it, you'll check the bottom of your shoes to see if you stepped in something. Then you'll be glad that you run a perfume.