Iraqi politicians split on third term for Maliki
There are indications that Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki will run for a third term despite criticism and opposition from various political parties.
The State of Law Coalition, led by Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, has not put forward a new candidate for the premiership. The coalition instead hopes to see Maliki in the post for a renewed third term, but this scenario is rejected by the majority of the political coalitions planning to participate in parliamentary elections scheduled for April 30.
Members of the State of Law Coalition believe that Maliki, prime minister since 2006, has proven himself to be competent, arguing that he is the best and most-experienced candidate for the position. Maliki's rivals, however, contend that presenting him again as a candidate threatens the democratic process.
