"Ankara's Two Expectations
Fikret Bila
Columnist Fikret Bila comments on Iraq�s post-election era. A summary of his column is as follows:
�The results of Iraq�s recent elections were just as expected, that is, the new Iraqi Parliament will consist mostly of Shiites, Arabs and Kurds. These results disturbed Ankara, which is trying to understand why Turkmen turnout was low both in Kirkuk and throughout Iraq. The legality of these elections is debatable. However, this was expected. Ankara�s general evaluation can be summarized up as follows: �The polls� results were suspicious. Sunni Arabs didn�t participate. This is one reason their legality is in question. In addition, Kurds are represented at a level above their actual strength. This is true of Shiites as well. However, one-third of Iraqis are unrepresented.� In addition, Ankara has two expectations:
1. Sunni Arabs should be represented in the upcoming preparation of a constitution. They should be included in the Constitution Preparation Commission established by the new Parliament. The constitution should be written by a delegation representing all sectors of Iraqi society.
2. Kirkuk�s special status should be protected in the new constitution. If a federal structure is established, Kirkuk shouldn�t be part of this. "
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