Iraqi PM facing battle to form new government

Adel Abdel Mahdi, Iraq’s prime minister-designate and a veteran politician, yesterday began the task of forming the next government, seeking to overcome sharp differences and unite fractious political parties.

In a surprise move only hours after being elected as president late on Tuesday, Barham Saleh handed Mr Abdel Mahdi – seen as an independent – the difficult responsibility. The appointment comes as different blocs in the Iraqi parliament are still jostling for power following elections in May.