SIIC challenges loom for new leadership

BAGHDAD, Sept. 3 (UPI) -- Challenges remain for the Supreme Islamic Iraqi Council despite the show of unity for Ammar al-Hakim as the new party leader, lawmakers say.

Ammar al-Hakim was elected Tuesday to head the influential SIIC following the death of his father and former leader Abdul Aziz al-Hakim in August.

Iranian and Iraqi lawmakers alike were quick to note the swift appointment of Ammar was a sign of unity as Iraq prepares for national elections in January.

But unity does little to tackle looming issues, such as Shiite federalism and the role of the Dawa Party of Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, lawmakers tell the analytical Web site Niqash.

"The next phase will be dedicated for healing wounds and reuniting people after the death of al-Hakim," said Iman al-Asadi, a lawmaker with SIIC.

SIIC suffered a defeat at the hands of the Dawa-backed State of Law slate in the provincial elections early this year, and success of the newly formed Iraqi National Alliance will be put to the test as a new political season unfolds.

Asadi, however, say it is premature to make any assessments about the Shiite political movement with developments in their early stages.

"It is too early to judge SIIC and to express fears about its disintegration because it is supported by the religious authorities who are keen to have it united as will be proved in the days ahead," he said.