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Submitted by ctv_en_6 on Mon, 11/09/2009 - 11:17
The Iraqi parliament has approved a crucial election law ahead of national polls due in January 2010.

The reform was passed by a wide margin after weeks of deadlock, which had raised fears that the parliamentary election might have to be delayed.

There have been concerns that such a postponement could undo recent progress towards greater stability.

US President Barack Obama hailed the MPs' vote as a "milestone" as Iraqis take responsibility for their future.

January's election is seen as crucial to strengthening Iraqi democracy.

The electoral law - which has to be in place at least 90 days before voting - was approved by 141 of 196 lawmakers present.

The emotional session was broadcast live on national television.

The parliamentary vote had been delayed 10 times over several weeks.

The country's factions were deadlocked on a range of issues including: the distribution of seats in the ethnically divided, oil-rich city of Kirkuk; and how candidates are to be listed on ballot papers.

BBC/VOVNews

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