Skip to main content

Iraqi PM resigns as protests rage

IRAQI Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi finally resigned yesterday after weeks of bloody protest in which more than 200 people have been killed by security forces.

He made the announcement with Iraqis continuing to protest over an economic crisis with widespread unemployment, poverty and poor delivery of public services.

It comes after Islamist cleric Muqtada al-Sadr urged Iraqi opposition parties to support him in a motion of no confidence in a bid to oust Mr Mahdi who came to power last October after months of political deadlock.

Iraqi President Barham Salih said that he was going to draft new legislation next week in order to hold a fresh parliamentary ballot and promised to clampdown on corruption.

In an address broadcast live on Iraqi state television he said: “The Prime Minister had previously agreed to submit his resignation.

“If the blocs agree on an acceptable replacement in order to adhere to constitutional and legal frameworks.”

It was unclear as the Star went to print whether Mr Mahdi would resign immediately or wait until a successor was chosen.

OWNED BY OUR READERS

We're a reader-owned co-operative, which means you can become part of the paper too by buying shares in the People’s Press Printing Society.

 

 

Become a supporter

Fighting fund

You've Raised:£ 13,288
We need:£ 4,712
3 Days remaining
Donate today