Government Paralysis: Government and Minister Posts

government paralysis: Al-Abadi had argued that the positions, and the cost of maintaining security details for them, should be eliminated in order to streamline government and cut costs as low global oil prices squeeze Iraq budget, according to CTV. The move was part of a package of reforms aimed at weakening Iraq entrenched political blocs, which are widely blamed for the government paralysis and inability to provide basic services. The premier had proposed abolishing the two vice-presidential and deputy prime minister posts, largely ceremonial positions created after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion to give the Sunni and Kurdish minorities a greater presence in the Shiite-led government. The court ruled the move unconstitutional, however, saying that eliminating the posts would require the approval of an absolute majority in parliament followed by a national referendum. The country Shiites, Sunnis and Kurds remain deeply divided on a host of issues, and the blocs representing them are widely seen as corrupt and dysfunctional -- a toxic mix that contributed to the resurgence of IS, a Sunni extremist group, nearly three years ago. Government spokesman Saad al-Hadithi dismissed concerns about the political fallout of Monday ruling, but warned that the restoration of the offices would "affect the expenses of the state." The lingering gridlock in Baghdad has raised concerns that even if U.S.-backed Iraqi forces drive IS from Mosul -- the country second-largest city -- the government will be unable to ensure lasting peace and security. (www.immigrantscanada.com). As reported in the news.