BAGHDAD, Iraq: The Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has resigned from his post, ending a political deadlock in Baghdad.
His resignation has made way for Haider al-Abadi, who has been asked by Iraqi President Fouad Massoum to form a new government.
“I announce before you today, to ease the movement of the political process and the formation of the new government, the withdrawal of my candidacy in favor of brother Dr. Haider al-Abadi,” Maliki said in an address on state television.
Maliki said that his decision to give up the position to Abadi shows his desire to safeguard the high interests of the country.