Alghadeer TV Alghadeer TV
Iraq’s Prime Minister-designate Mustafa Al Kadhimi has sent his government programme to Parliament in the hope of breaking the country’s political deadlock.
Earlier this month, President Barham Salih tapped Mr. Al Kadhimi to lead Iraq, making him the third nominee in 10 weeks to take the position.
“My government programme was delivered to parliament today. The nominees for cabinet positions will follow in the days to come, and within the constitutionally mandated time frame,” Mr. Al Kadhimi said on Twitter.
Parliamentarians are expected to vote on the proposed cabinet by 9th May.
Mr. Al Kadhimi, a former intelligence chief supported by the west, has faced serious challenges in forming the next government.
“Long live Iraq, the Iraqi people, and our sovereign land,” he said.
Pro-Iranian parliamentary blocs withdrew their support for Mr. Al Kadhimi after they reversed their initial position of non-objection towards his appointment and chosen ministers for his cabinet.
In an unprecedented move, Mr. Al Kadhimi indicated on Monday that he is facing serious difficulties in forming his cabinet, citing political pressures.
He urged all sides “to put the interest of Iraq above everything else”.
Mr. Al Kadhimi said he would only acknowledge forces who “support the course of the state”.
In other developments, the country tightened its coronavirus measures by extending the imposed curfew by an hour after many citizens failed to abide by the measures.
The government also imposed a 50,000 Iraqi dinar fine, on those who refrain from wearing masks in shops and are not adhering to social distancing regulations.
Iraq has 2003 coronavirus cases and 92 deaths.
