VP says will use constitutional powers to achieve justice in Kirkuk issue

BAGHDAD / IraqiNews.com: Iraqi Vice President Tareq al-Hashemi on Monday said he would use his constitutional powers, where necessary, to put justice in the disputed issue of Kirkuk. “I wish that no one imposes a solution that does not meet the minimum standards of justice sought by all parties, or else I will use my constitutional powers to put things right,” according to a statement released by his office and received by IraqiNews.com news agency. Hashemi has voiced his concerns over the delay in passing the electoral legislation. Throughout the past week, the Iraqi Parliament has failed to pass the elections bill due to differences over the status of the oil-rich city of Kirkuk in the law on parliamentary elections, scheduled to be held on January 16, 2010. SS (P) 1