3 Sadrist ministers resign from Iraqi government

Three ministers from the Iraqi Al Ahrar political bloc led by Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al resigned on Monday.

A statement from the bloc said the ministers of water, industry and minerals, and housing and construction would no longer attend cabinet meetings or go to their offices.

Iraqi political blocs want to replace some or all of the premier's cabinet nominees, a move likely to continue the system of party-affiliated ministers he called to change, officials said Sunday.

Prime Minister Haider al Abadi has said that "fundamental" change to the cabinet is needed so that it includes "professional and technocratic figures and academics".

He presented a list of candidates for a slimmed-down government to the parliament last week, but has faced major opposition from powerful political parties that rely on control of ministries for patronage and funds.

At least two of Abadi's nominees withdrew, and his cabinet reform efforts seem set for further setbacks. 

Source : MENA