Iraqis debate the US way

By Barbara Plett BBC correspondent in Baghdad

The coalition authorities are trying to turn dissent into debate

Political debate continues in Iraq about whether to elect or select a provisional government.

The occupational authorities and their Iraqi allies are trying to channel this discussion into a series of US-style town hall meetings across the country.

They are meant to serve as a forum for Iraqis to voice concerns and questions about the process to the American-appointed Iraqi Governing Council.

One meeting in Baghdad is attended by members of local councils, notables, academics and tribal leaders.

The delegates are sitting at large wooden tables, about 10 or 12 at each table.

They have been invited here. This is not a public meeting.

Some Christians I spoke to were happy with the very managed approach of the Americans, because they feel it will benefit minorities

They are discussing their expectations about the transition to sovereignty and questions that they have and a bit later they will present these views to the entire group.

Just before this there was a presentation explaining the American plan, the way the transitional government will be selected by regional committees.

But for such a complex subject, the presentation was rather speedy. The man next to me gave up taking notes after a while.

Range of opinion

I have heard a variety of opinions already about how the provisional government should be chosen.

Some say by elections, no matter how long it takes.

Some say partial elections by the deadline date of 30 June.

But some Christians I spoke to were happy with the very managed approach of the Americans, because they feel it will benefit minorities.