Maliki lobbies for support in Basra

BASRA, Iraq, Jan. 23 (UPI) -- Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki arrived in the port city of Basra Friday to campaign for his State of Law coalition ahead of provincial elections.

Maliki told a delegation of tribal leaders in Basra that Iraq needs provincial council leaders who will effectively steer the country in a positive direction, the Voices of Iraq news agency reported.

"We need those who assume senior positions to be characterized by honesty and efficiency, because efficiency alone is not enough in reconstructing the country," Maliki said. The premier said if his Shiite coalition was not serving the public interest, it would be no good for the country.

The State of Law, or Dawlat al-Qanoon, coalition comprises Maliki's Dawa Party, the Islamic Union of Iraqi Turkomen, the Islamic Solidarity List and others, including an independent bloc.

Basra is considered the economic hub of Iraq. The political situation there is tense ahead of the elections as several rival Shiite parties, notably the Fadhila Party and the Supreme Islamic Iraqi Council, are vying for power in the oil-rich region.

Observers note the political conflicts in Basra may turn violent ahead of the Jan. 31 elections.

Maliki was accompanied by members of the Cabinet as well as Basra Gov. Mohamed al-Waeli. Maliki himself is not a candidate during provincial elections.