Iraq panel wipes out votes, result in doubt [View All]

Source: Reuters

BAGHDAD, April 26 (Reuters) - An Iraqi review panel on Monday invalidated votes cast for 52 candidates in last month's election, throwing into question the slim lead of the winning Sunni-backed alliance.

Electoral officials and politicians said while Monday's decision may not alter the final outcome of the election, a more significant ruling was expected on Tuesday, when the panel considers the fate of six to nine winning candidates.

Regardless of the real impact of Monday's ruling, analysts said it could raise tensions after the inconclusive March vote.

One of the names barred on Monday for alleged ties to Saddam Hussein's banned Baath party was a winner in the March 7 ballot for the cross-sectarian bloc of ex-premier Iyad Allawi, which rode strong Sunni support to gain the lead in the election.



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