What was that about elections again?

It would seem that the Bush administration is dedicated to fair, free elections anywhere in the world---so long as they yield the results the administration wants. [Insert ominous music here.]

Repeatedly, the administration has claimed its support for a free, democratic Iraq. Yet, now that people are starting to organize themselves, the occupation forces are shutting down elections all over the country, because they are not being held according to the plans that the "colonial" government has established.

Perhaps it's just me, but wouldn't it be in our best interests to allow elections to go forward? Even if they end up being largely for show, or just having a power-share between appointed and elected officials (even if the balance is still heavily tilted toward the former), the fact that the Iraqi people would be having some say in their own governance would probably go a lot farther than empty promises and the installation of third-rate military officers.