The political crisis in Iraq intensified yesterday when the country’s president named a new prime minister to replace Nouri al-Maliki, raising fears of a prolonged power struggle amid the raging battle with Islamist insurgents.
In a major blow to Mr Maliki, the largest grouping in parliament nominated Haidar al-Abadi, a member of Mr Maliki’s own Shia-dominated party, as prime minister-designate. The decision was quickly endorsed by the recently installed President Fouad Masoum.
The power struggle in Baghdad highlights the deep divisions within the country’s Shia political and religious establishment over the fate of Mr Maliki, who has insisted on retaining the premiership despite widespread opposition.