Maliki and his political and technical teams are highly discreet with Iraqi journalists. The prime minister’s office does not talk about any subjects pertaining to Maliki’s condition. Even the administrative structure and the number of advisers are still a mystery. Observers believe that this state of isolation intensifies the interpretations and gives credibility to rumors.
On Feb. 24, 2008, Maliki went to London to undergo medical tests that were described by the Council of Ministers’ official media release as “routine checkups.” At the time, Iraqi doctors advised Maliki to go to London to undergo his medical tests and to rest assured about the results that had already been detected and treated in Baghdad. Yet, when it comes to Maliki’s medical condition, information ranges between stroke, cardiomyopathy and hyperglycemia.
With conflicting news about Maliki’s health and the medical treatment of President Jalal Talabani, concerns are snowballing about the future of a political process that is already experiencing acute crises.
If doubts over Maliki’s health persist, according to Article 78 of Section 3 of the Iraqi Constitution: “The President of the Republic shall take up the office of the Prime Minister in the event the post becomes vacant for any reason whatsoever." If this occurs, "The President must designate another nominee to form the cabinet within a period not to exceed 15 days in accordance with the provisions of Article 73 of this Constitution.”
This article, however, cannot be carried out since Talabani [himself] is receiving medical treatment, the details of which are as yet unclear. Additionally, the constitution does not tackle the issue of both the president and prime minister being absent.
Ali Abel Sadah is a Baghdad-based writer for both Iraqi and Arab media. He has been a managing editor for local newspapers as well as a political and cultural reporter for more than 10 years.
I predict Maliki will resign soon, because the charade and scam has come to a head. Good luck getting out of the country with all those US dollars. Hopefully your own people won't figure out what you have been doing for the last 12 years. Good luck trying to spend all that money, and I don't mean the Iraqi Dinar. All those leaders over, are all the same. Must be part of the Arab mold, that they share nothing and take everything they can, without getting caught or at least try. He's playing it smart, not going anywhere and pretending to be ill, until he can leave. His own government people will all be exiting quietly soon. You wait. Sneeky bastards. Their all the same.