Talabani Seeks More Authority

President Jalal Talabani said he is not opposed to current prime minister Ibrahim al-Jafa'ari being named premier again even though the two have many disagreements. He maintained that it is up to the United Iraqi Alliance to nominate any candidate to occupy that post. (The alliance holds the most seats in parliament, and Ja'afari is a member.) He emphasized that a national unity government must be formed, consisting of all blocs that won seats in the election. He hoped that the new government would settle the issues of security and eliminating terrorism. Talabani added that he would not vie for the presidency under the same authorities he has now.