Victory in Iraq Co-Chairs Applaud Confirmation of Iraqi Parliament

Today, Iraq's Electoral Commission announced the certified results of the country's elections on December 15, 2005. Congressmen Mark Green (WI-08) and Joe Wilson (SC-02), Co-Chairs of the Victory in Iraq Caucus, congratulated the Iraqi people on accomplishing another key step in the formation of their new government:

"Today, Iraqi election officials confirmed what so many of us have long anticipated – that the results of Iraq's recent parliamentary elections were both successful and legitimate. This news is yet another clear sign of Iraq's growing embrace of democracy and further confirmation that the Iraqi people are ready to march as one toward a brighter future. Although the newly-elected leaders of Iraq must still complete the difficult task of creating a permanent government, I have the utmost confidence that they are ready to shoulder this incredible responsibility," said Congressman Green.

"The Commission's confirmation is a reminder of the tremendous progress that has been made in Iraq by U.S. troops and the Iraqi people. Only three years ago, the Iraqi National Assembly was a repressive institution that served as a rubber stamp for Saddam Hussein and his brutal regime. Today, the parliament represents the Iraqi people and is recognized internationally as a symbol of democracy. As Iraq's newly-elected leaders prepare to officially serve their country, I would like to applaud them for their dedication to establishing a civil society in their country," said Congressman Wilson.

Iraqi Parliamentary Election Results:

(Source: The Associated Press)

· On December 15, 2005, 12.4 million (over 75%) Iraqis participated in their country's first parliamentary elections.

· Today, Iraq's Electoral Commission confirmed the election results for the 275-seat parliament:

o The United Iraqi Alliance won 128 seats

o The Kurdish Coalition won 53 seats

o The Iraqi Accordance Front won 44 seats

o The Iraqi Front for National Dialogue won 25 seats

o The remaining 25 seats are held by smaller parties

· Under Iraq's new constitution, President Jalal Talabani must convene the new parliament within two weeks and he must name a new prime minister in the next 15 days.

· Parliament then has 30 days to elect a new national president.

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