BAGHDAD — Thousands of Iraqi citizens will have the opportunity to select their new provincial leaders Jan. 31 by casting their vote at one of the many polling sites throughout the city. It’s the job of the Iraq Security Forces to provide the security for these voters.
The ISF cast their votes during a special Election Day, Jan. 28, so they would be able to have their voices heard while ensuring the security for the Iraqi citizens during the regular election.
The preparations for the elections are proof that the ISF and the Government of Iraq are working hard to improve the security of Iraq while also bringing democracy to its citizens.
The ISF are easily leading the way to providing a safe environment for the Iraqi people to not get discouraged and go out to vote, said Staff Sgt. Aaron Coombs, a mortar section sergeant with Multi-National Division – Baghdad.
To increase security the ISF set up extra force protection measures at the polling sites.
“The security perimeter around the polling site will be very secure,” said Lt. Ali, an Iraqi National Police Officer with the Division in charge of the polling site at the Children’s War Memorial in the Doura community here. “Cars will not be allowed near the site.”
The site will be blocked off with wire so the people that live in the homes nearby must go through the same checkpoints as everyone else to reach the polls, Ali added. Separate lines for male and female voters are planned, and each person will be searched more than once before entering the polling site.
The Independent Electoral Commission is expecting more than 3,000 at the Children’s War Memorial location and the NP, Iraqi Police and Sons of Iraq will provide the best security, said Ali.
“When the people see how secure the polling sites are, they will come out and vote,” he stated.
After the polling sites close, the ballots will be collected and transported securely by the ISF to a secure location to be counted.
“It’s a new experience. We are looking forward to having a democratic country and getting away from the corruption: to provide a good future for this country,” said Mohammed, an SoI member standing guard at a checkpoint near a polling station in the Doura community of Baghdad. “It’s a beautiful thing.”