Political blocs presented 3 candidates each for new cabinet post – Maliki

BAGHDAD / IraqiNews.com: A number of Iraqi political blocs have presented three candidates each for the ministers’ posts in the future cabinet, Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki said on Saturday. “Every parliamentary bloc has presented 3 candidates for each ministry and the Prime Minister (Maliki) shall chose one of each of the three candidates to join his new cabinet, based on their efficiency, integrity and professionalism,” Maliki told a news conference. Maliki noted that he expects the announcement of his forthcoming cabinet to be made during the period from the 10-15 December. “The posts of Interior and Defense ministries would be assigned to independent and professional personalities,” Maliki reiterated. The Prime Minister refuted claims that certain elements are attempted to delay the formation of the new government. Maliki further called upon all those who participated in the political dialogues to “commit themselves to the agreements achieved with them,” noting that “we want to build a state of institutions and not a state of parties and sects, in our future government’s program.” “The future government shall try to put an end to the passive policies of the past government. The Iraqi people have suffered enough from terrorism and corruption and they are now looking forward to compensation, along with the restoration of security, housing, development of agriculture, industry and education sectors,” Maliki highlighted. Maliki called on the Parliament to “be supportive of the government and to lift the blockades chaining its activity, along with the unification of the political line that had been divided during the past period.” SKH/SR 2