Basra residents dissuaded from voting by politicians' broken promises

BASRA, Iraq -- The oil-rich province of Basra is considered a major economic hub in Iraq. However, a lack of basic services has dissuaded many from participating in the upcoming elections.
 
In the central neighborhood of al-Taweesa in Basra city, many are disillusioned by the broken promises of politicians, and they say they won’t be heading to the polls on October 10.
 
“We won’t participate in the elections. We’ll punish the political parties,” said Saadoon Mahmood, an al-Taweesa resident. “There are no services, no salaries, no houses and no life.”
 
According to the Iraqi Ministry of Planning, 34 percent of people in Basra live below the poverty line.
 
No major projects have been undertaken in the city for six years and dozens of smaller ones have been halted due to mismanagement and corruption.
 
Despite the anger of the people, parliamentary candidates say the election is a chance for change.
 
“Iraq is moving towards a democratic state. The only way to make change for the Iraqi people is through the election,” said Ayad Mohammed, a Sadrist movement candidate.

Translation and video editing by Sarkawt Mohammed