A leading Shiite politician has reassured Sunnis and all other groups in Iraq that Shiite Muslims will ensure their inclusion in the new government.

The majority Shiites are expected to win most of the seats in the new 275-member National Assembly.

Abdul Aziz Al-Hakim, who heads the 233-member ticket of the United Iraqi Alliance, said his group will insist on achieving the principle of participation of all sectors of society in the government.

Al-Hakim's list, which is backed by Iraq's most respected Shiite cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, is expected to win the majority of the vote.

Many Sunni Arabs fear the January 30 ballot will end generations of Sunni domination of Iraqi political life.

Some Sunni insurgents have threatened to attack polling stations to try to disrupt the election.