Sadr Movement Official Says Maliki Bloc Lacks Weight for Two Ministries

Sadrun Movement Politburo member Saad al-Saadi launched a sharp attack on the State of Law Coalition led by Nuri al-Maliki, saying its political and electoral weight is not enough to merit two ministries. He said the dispute blocked approval of the coalition’s candidate for interior minister. Al-Saadi said the backlash grew after the coalition tried to impose its nominee without consulting the Coordination Framework, prompting strong objections and the nominee’s withdrawal. He portrayed the episode as evidence that the coalition was pushing ahead unilaterally rather than through agreed political channels. He also accused Maliki of trying to weaken the will of the Coordination Framework. Al-Saadi said the State of Law Coalition’s policies threaten Shiite unity. The Sadrun Movement official further criticized the coalition’s media rhetoric, saying it is pursuing a political line built on conspiracy theories.