Sunni nationalism eyes autonomy
As Prime Minister Maliki forges a Shiite governing coalition, Iraq’s Sunnis turn their backs on Baghdad.
Iraqi men show their ink-stained fingers after casting their votes in the Sunni bastion of Fallujah in the Anbar province on March 7, 2010. (AZHAR SHALLAL/AFP/Getty Images)
BAGHDAD - As the formation of a new Iraqi government draws closer, Iraq's Sunni population is bracing for political marginalization. Once dependable advocates of a strong central government, they are increasingly supporting the rights of provinces to control their local economies, including the oil sector.
Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, leader of the Shiite-dominated State of Law coalition, seems poised to secure a second term. It's not clear yet whether the Iraqiya political block, which is led by former Prime Minister Ayad Allawi and has a major Sunni component, will have a meaningful role in the new government. If it doesn't, Iraqiya would become an opposition party or boycott the government altogether.
This content is for registered users. Please login to continue.
If you are not a registered user, you may purchase a subscription.
If you are not a registered user, you may purchase a subscription.
