Boy do I agree with that! The list system that the UN put in place is a total disaster. Direct representation of local people, known and trusted by the people, would be FAR better. Then if things don't work right, they can replace the guy who is the problem instead of going against their own group.
The elections also must watched closely and done differently, the December 2005 election from what I have seen had far far too much fraud in it.
The UN refused to oversee the election and the US was scared to be accused to influencing the election or it being seen as illegitimate.
Next time the UN and the US must oversee closely the election.
When you have car-bombs going off all around you, I don't think it matters to the man-in-the-street whether or not they live in a democracy, a republic, or any other form of government.
The Iraqi government needs to publicly execute anyone that is fomenting insurrection or even remotely connected with the insurgents. They also need to publicly confront Iran and Syria for their roles in the insurgency. Until the Iraqi government takes a stronger stand and quashes the insurgency, it won't matter to the everyday Iraqi citizen who declares themselves to be in charge.