Baghdad-Tuesday, 15 July 2008-The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) congratulates the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) for the successful opening today of 563 voter registration update centers throughout Iraq.  The centers provide an opportunity for all Iraqis to verify and update their details so that they are registered to vote in elections.  All internally displaced persons and Iraqis are encouraged to visit their local voter registration center in the next 30 days so they can participate in the election process.

NGOs, political parties and members of civil society organizations have also been registered to observe the voter registration update and UNAMI believes this is the best way to ensure transparency and credibility in this important democratic process. 

For more information please visit the IHEC website at www.ihec.iq