Referendum call a reasonable request

To a great extent there is justification in Moqtada Al Sadr calling for a public referendum on the long-term security deal with the US.

While it is understood that the present Iraq coalition government was democratically elected, it could be argued that not all Iraqis voted, for one reason or another, so the government is not truly representative of the people. It is an argument put forward in many societies where a "first past the post" system of election takes place.

However, with Iraq divided along sectarian lines in most areas and with instability still prevalent, it is possibly better to seek the opinion of as many Iraqis as possible, especially so sensitive issues - as was done with the constitution.

The issue of whether the US stays in Iraq past the end of this year and continues to look after Iraq's security interests, or goes at the behest of the people is very sensitive indeed.

While the government is prepared to sign a deal with the US to extend their term, there is a growing suspicion among many that the US is ensconced in Iraq and will be difficult to remove, especially with the price of oil increasing daily.