  By HAMZA HENDAWI, Associated Press Writer BAGHDAD, Iraq - Iraq (news - web sites)'s new human rights minister may be the most potent symbol of postwar Iraq: a member of a long-oppressed minority who has a unique opportunity to prove that Iraqis can put aside ethnic and religious rivalries to come together as a nation. It's an extremely difficult time for anyone, especially a Kurd like Bakhtiyar Amin, to delve into the complex and grim world of Iraq's human rights record — a catalogue of gruesome atrocities committed over 35 years of Baath Party rule during which Saddam Hussein (news - web sites) played a key role.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Amin said Iraqis must overcome enemies that include religious fanatics, remnants of Saddam's regime and neighboring countries that don't want to see Iraq become democratic. "I want to help in the creation of a harmonious society," he said. "It will not be easy and it will take time, but we are determined. " --I really hope he has what it takes to do the job. I have faith in the new government. Without hope, where are we? Bavk where we started...I presume. Andrew B. 
