Iraq's President Fouad Masum is taking a giant leap in the midst of intense political conflicts among its leaders, dire humanitarian crisis, and ever-growing military threat. President Masum is nominating a new prime minister. Not everybody agrees with this nomination, however, especially Nuri al-Maliki, the current prime minister.
In a televised ceremony graced by members of the Shiite bloc in Parliament, Masum nominated Haider al-Abadi as the new prime minister, replacing Nuri al-Maliki.
Al-Abadi, backed by the Iraqi National Alliance, accepted his nomination and committed to form a government to "protect the Iraqi people."
Iraqi National Alliance is a coalition of Shiite parties which includes State of Law, political party that al-Maliki is a part of and eventually turned against him.
Abadi also appears to be supported by key members of the leading parliamentary coalition such as Iraq's foreign minister and the Dawa party's spokesman. These two key members were spotted in attendance during the ceremony for his nomination.
Maliki, who previously vowed to hold on to his post, on the other hand, announced, along with junior members of his party, his move to question Masum's decision in court.
In a press interview, al-Maliki announced to his supporters to "remain in your places and do not worry or be shaken over constitutional violation. We will repair the mistake."
"No one has the right to do anything ... without my permission," al-Maliki added.
The newly designated Prime Minister, Abadi, was a former aide to al-Maliki. He is the deputy speaker of the Iraqi Parliament as well.
Abadi was given a 30-day period to consolidate and form a new government prior to officially taking his new role as prime minister.
The international community likewise extended their approval and support to Abadi's nomination.
U.S. President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden contacted Abadi to show their support to the newly nominated prime minister.
The only lasting solution, Obama told the local media, "is for Iraqis to come together and form an inclusive government."
