Democracy in Iraq showcased in election

BAGHDAD, March 6 (UPI) -- Iraqi President Jalal Talabani says his country's upcoming elections will reveal the chances democracy has of flourishing in Iraq.

The Washington Post said Saturday the results of Sunday's elections should prove how well democracy has been received in Iraq, seven years after the Middle Eastern country was invaded by the United States.

"This is a very important election," Talabani said. "It will decide the future of the democratic process in Iraq. It will be developed or stopped."

The Post said fallout from the elections will also be important since opposition from election losers could result in Iraq becoming trapped in a fresh round of post-election chaos.

Former Iraqi Prime Minister Ayad Allawi warned that stability in Iraq would also be impacted if the elections are perceived as fraudulent or illegitimate.

"If violations continue and we find they've reached a serious level, we'll take the appropriate actions," Allawi said.

"We can't accept the confiscation of the Iraqi voice."