The decision may set back government efforts to ensure participation by Sunni Muslims.
By Alissa J. Rubin, Times Staff Writer
BAGHDAD — Dozens of political organizations, many with largely Sunni Muslim members, announced Thursday that they would boycott elections planned for January as the government's leading political parties met in northern Iraq to discuss forming an alliance before the vote.
The groups' decision, announced by the influential Muslim Scholars Assn., was not a surprise, and its ultimate impact is difficult to gauge because many of the other organizations command little support. But it casts doubts over efforts by the U.S.-backed interim Iraqi government to ensure participation by Sunni Muslims in the elections. Without substantial Sunni involvement, any elected government would be fragile.
The boycott plan came on the same day leading members of the government talked about running on the same ticket, which would improve their chances of winning. They already have name recognition and political organizations that can help sell their message.
Thursday was the deadline for political parties to register with the Iraqi Electoral Commission, but there will be a two-day grace period for late filings in Baghdad. So far, the electoral commission has certified 80 political entities and 50 more have submitted applications and are awaiting approval, said Hussein Hindawi, the chairman.
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