DUBAI, Dec 31: Radical Islamist groups in Iraq, including Al-Qaeda linked Ansar Al-Sunna, warned in an statement on Thursday they considered democracy "farcial and un-Islamic" and warned of strikes against anyone taking part in next month's election.

"Those who participate in this dirty farce will not be sheltered from the blows of the Mujahedeen," said a statement posted on an Islamist website signed also by the Islamic Army in Iraq and the Army of the Mujahideen.

"Democracy is a word of Greek origin meaning the sovereignty of the people... this concept is considered apostasy, contrary to the doctrine of one God and Sharia (Islamic law)," the statement added. -AFP