Baghdad (AsiaNews) "The will of the Iraqi people expressed itself," said Mgr Emmanuel Delly, Chaldean Patriarch of Baghdad. Speaking to AsiaNews about yesterday's elections, the prelate added that "for this we thank God who always wants what is good for His children".
According to figures that are almost official, turnout was around 60 per cent.
Patriarch Delly emphasised how "everybody, Christians and Muslims, went to vote as one people. Those who wanted what is good for the country went to vote".
The Patriarch insisted on the ferocity of some fringes who tried to oppose the vote with bombs, attacks and violence against polling stations.
"It is possible to have different opinions," he said, "but some express them in a ferocious manner, others do it peacefully".
Despite the violence that still affects the country, Patriarch Delly is convinced that "it is necessary we remain optimistic about the future" because la situation is bound to improve.
"We must put our trust in Providence and entrust ourselves in the protection of Our Lady and the prayers for Iraq that said from around the world, especially those of the Pope". (LF)