IRAQ: Domestic Politics
Saddam Huaayn ic mooing to broaden hie bacc of oupport and neutralise oomc of the oritioicm of hia one-man rule.
Saddam, who lacks tho personal popularity enjoyed by former President Bakr, scorns to be trying toonstituency outside tho Baath Party. He has been making highly publicized efforts to show his concern about chronic shortages of consumer goods and services; he also has been visiting residential areas of Baghdad and local marketplaces, hospitals, schools, and factories.
Saddam's politicking coincides with the government's announcement of plans for electionsurdish legislative council. inisterial committee has begun preparations for the balloting, which could come late this year or in Although the outcome of the voting is certain to bo determined in advance, Saddam probably sees an election as useful inersonal following that would make him less dependent on the Baath Party organization.
Preparations may now be under way for the Baath Party congress and elections that were scheduled for last January. One of Saddam's closest associates reportedly is drafting the congress manifosto, and Saddam himself probably is selecting the candidates who will fill the party leadership positions made vacant by tho executions in August of those in the party who jsought to curtail his power when he became president.
Original document.
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