Iraq's Prime Minister has unveiled sweeping reforms to reduce government costs and fight corruption after protests across the country.
Haider al-Abadi said senior political appointments should be based on ability rather than on sectarian or party quotas.
Iraq's Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi Photo: AFP
Iraq's system of sharing government posts between sectarian groups has long been criticised for promoting unqualified candidates and encouraging corruption.
Mr al-Abadi also moved to abolish the posts of vice-president and deputy prime minister.
He also called for the creation of a committtee of judges to investigate cases of corruption within state institutions.
Some of his proposals have already been approved by the council of ministers but still require the parliament's approval, while others will require changes to the country's constitution, meaning that swift action is unlikely.