Mixed reactons on Saddam´s execution across Iraq

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Source: CCTV.com | 12-31-2006 08:39

Special Report:   Iraq in Transition

Across Iraq, initial reactions to the execution of Saddam Hussein have been mixed. Many Shiite and Kurdish Iraqis celebrated the hanging. But supporters of the former president criticized the speed and legitimacy of the US-backed trial.

There was mixed reaction in the Iraqi capital of Baghdad to Saddam's execution. In the predominantly Sunni district of Karkh, residents criticized the process that led to Saddam's hanging.

Fadil Naser, Sunni resident, said, "The court is illegitimate. The tribunal was formed under an American occupation. It is an unfair sentence."

Meanwhile, many Shiite residents celebrated Saddam's execution.

Hussein Hassan, Shiite resident, said, "I'm pleased to hear the execution of the criminal Saddam Hussein. And Saddam's execution is not enough since so many people were executed during his era."

In some Shiite cities such as Najaf and Basra, people were celebrating in the streets.

And in some northern cities, Kurdish residents also expressed satisfaction over Saddam's death.

Ahmed Ali, Kurdish resident, said, "Saddam's execution is like a feast for all Iraqi people. We pray that terrorism will end. And we hope for stability and security."

But people in the village where Saddam was born seethed with anger at the news. They say Saddam was a martyr in the fight against the US-backed government.

Awja villager, said, "I think things will turn to the worst. It was a fast trial and the execution was very fast,too. It should not be that way."

Many Iraqis are concerned that Saddam's hanging may trigger more violence around the country.

 

Editor:Du Xiaodan