COALITION PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY

South-Central Region

PRESS RELEASE

Thursday, September 18, 2003

 Al anbar Governorate COUNCIL meets to discuss issues

Al Ramadi, Al Anbar.  The Al Anbar Governorate Council met on Wednesday for the fourth time.  This is an important step forward in self-government, and an important milestone on the road to full democracy for Iraqis.

For the first time, the Council ran the meeting on their own.  They discussed a border and highway police patrol, how to improve security, and assigned a committee to study unemployment.  Specifically, the Council members asked the committee to research generator requirements needed to restart key industries in Al Anbar Province, which would increase employment.

At the last meeting, the Council democratically elected Sheik Bazia as Chairman.  The council is made up of approximately 40 people, including religious, civil, and tribal leaders.  It represents all seven districts in Al Anbar Province. 

The Council signifies another step in bringing the government back to the people of Al Anbar.  The Coalition Provisional Authority will continue to assist Iraq as it progresses towards democracy.