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               Iraqi PM Proposes Cutting VP, Deputy PM Positions

   by VOA News

   Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has proposed eliminating the
   positions of vice president and deputy prime minister as part of a
   series of reforms to reduce corruption and improve government.

   Mr. Abadi announced the proposals Sunday following weeks of protests
   against mismanagement and a lack of services, including not providing
   consistent electricity.

   The plan calls for cutting Iraq's three vice presidents, which include
   Mr. Abadi's predecessor Nouri al-Maliki.  It would also end party and
   sectarian quotas for choosing officials and reducing the number of
   personal bodyguards assigned to officials.

   The Cabinet and parliament would have to approve the moves before they
   go into effect.

   In addition to the protests, Iraq's top Shi'ite cleric Grand Ayatollah
   Ali al-Sistani called for Mr. Abadi to do more to fight corruption.

   Mr. Maliki's two-term tenure suffered from what critics said was a
   government that furthered sectarian tensions and failed to represent
   the interests of Sunnis, Kurds and other minorities.

   Allies urged Iraq to move forward with a unity government that might,
   among other things, allow for a better response to the Islamic State
   militants who took over large areas of northern and western Iraq last
   year.  Parliament responded by electing Mr. Abadi in September.

   Iraq's military has still struggled to make significant gains against
   the militants despite a year-old, U.S.-led campaign of more than 3,600
   airstrikes in Iraq.  During that time, Iraqi civilians and troops have
   died at a rate of more than 1,100 a month from terrorism and armed
   conflict, according to United Nations data.
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   [1]http://www.voanews.com/content/iraq-politics/2909147.html

References

   1. http://www.voanews.com/content/iraq-politics/2909147.html