    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book II)]
    [September 24, 2008]
    [Pages 1236-1237]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Provincial Elections Legislation in Iraq
    September 24, 2008

        Today Iraq's parliament passed a Provincial elections law enabling
    Iraq to hold Provincial elections by January 31, 2009. Elections in Iraq
    can now be held under a new system that will give Iraqis more say in
    choosing their elected representatives.

    [[Page 1237]]

        Nothing is more central to a functioning democracy than free and
    fair elections. Today's action demonstrates the ability of Iraq's
    leaders to work together for the good of the Iraqi people and represents
    further progress on political reconciliation. I congratulate the members
    of the Iraqi Council of Representatives for coming together to pass this
    significant legislation.