The only way out

THE declaration by UN secretary general Kofi Annan that the invasion of Iraq was illegal has interesting implications.

If the Bush/Blair invasion was illegal, then it follows logically that the occupation resulting from this invasion is also illegal. So, clearly, is the puppet regime which styles itself the interim government of Iraq.

Equally devoid of acceptability is any American-organised Iraqi election.

For democracy to come to Iraq, the entire paraphernalia of the Bush/Blair led invasion will have to be removed.

Only then - under a credible UN force from which the invaders are excluded - can the people of Iraq hope finally to elect a government.

Charles Hayes

East Ferry

Midleton

Co Cork