There
was a great deal of western concern spent over whether Iraq would
become a country where religious considerations would trump democracy.
There was also a lot of concern that democracy would trample religion.
I think the Iraqi parliament’s most recent decision is an example of
people trying to find that middle ground.
BAGHDAD - Iraq’s parliament on Tuesday passed a law to change the Saddam Hussein-era
flag, meeting the demands of Iraq’s Kurdish minority who threatened not
to fly the banner during a pan-Arab meeting in the Kurdish-run north
next month.
The measure, which expires in one year, was approved by show of
hands, with 110 lawmakers of 165 present voting in favor of removing
the three stars and changing the calligraphy of the words “Allahu
Akbar” in a symbolic break with the past.
The Kurds’ contention is they were persecuted under the Saddam era
banner, and feel strongly about taking part in a government which asks
for allegiance to it.
This is a comforting sign.
No Pundit Intended