Violence feared in Iraqi election

BAGHDAD: Iraqis will vote on Wednesday in the first national election since US troops left, amid deepening sectarian divisions and fears the country is on the brink of all-out bloodshed.

Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, lambasted by critics for allegedly consolidating power and targeting minority groups, is bidding for a third term with Iraqis frustrated over basic services, rampant corruption and high unemployment.