THE PRESIDENT: Today the people of Iraq have spoken to the world,
and the world is hearing the voice of freedom from the center of the
Middle East.
In great numbers, and under great risk, Iraqis have shown their
commitment to democracy. By participating in free elections, the Iraqi
people have firmly rejected the anti-democratic ideology of the
terrorists. They have refused to be intimidated by thugs and
assassins. And they have demonstrated the kind of courage that is
always the foundation of self-government.
Some Iraqis were killed while exercising their rights as citizens.
We also mourn the American and British military personnel who lost
their lives today. Their sacrifices were made in a vital cause of
freedom, peace in a troubled region, and a more secure future for us
all.
The Iraqi people, themselves, made this election a resounding
success. Brave patriots stepped forward as candidates. Many citizens
volunteered as poll workers. More than 100,000 Iraqi security force
personnel guarded polling places and conducted operations against
terrorist groups. One news account told of a voter who had lost a leg
in a terror attack last year, and went to the polls today, despite
threats of violence. He said, "I would have crawled here if I had to.
I don't want terrorists to kill other Iraqis like they tried to kill
me. Today I am voting for peace."
Across Iraq today, men and women have taken rightful control of
their country's destiny, and they have chosen a future of freedom and
peace. In this process, Iraqis have had many friends at their side.
The European Union and the United Nations gave important assistance in
the election process. The American military and our diplomats, working
with our coalition partners, have been skilled and relentless, and
their sacrifices have helped to bring Iraqis to this day. The people
of the United States have been patient and resolute, even in difficult
days.
The commitment to a free Iraq now goes forward. This historic
election begins the process of drafting and ratifying a new
constitution, which will be the basis of a fully democratic Iraqi
government. Terrorists and insurgents will continue to wage their war
against democracy, and we will support the Iraqi people in their fight
against them. We will continue training Iraqi security forces so this
rising democracy can eventually take responsibility for its own
security.
There's more distance to travel on the road to democracy. Yet
Iraqis are proving they're equal to the challenge. On behalf of the
American people, I congratulate the people of Iraq on this great and
historic achievement.