Iraqi PM 'prepared to step down'

[kpete]

Iraqi PM 'prepared to step down'

Most parties do not want Jaafari continuing as prime minister
Iraq's Prime Minister Ibrahim Jaafari says he is willing to withdraw his nomination to lead the new government if the Iraqi people want him to do so.
"If my people ask me to step aside I will do this," Mr Jaafari said, shortly after attending the much-delayed inaugural session of Iraq's parliament.

The Shias' nomination of Mr Jaafari has been a major sticking point in forming a government as he lacks wider support.

He has been criticised for not doing more to curb Iraq's violence.

Growing sectarian violence in the country has prompted predictions that Iraq is on the brink of civil war.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4811574.stm