BAGHDAD, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- Members of the Iraqi Governing Council have surprised U.S. authorities by asking them to ignore an earlier decision to dissolve and instead remain in power.
The New York Times said the group wants to remain as a second legislative body or senate just nine days after voting to dissolve when a provisional government is elected in June.
Jalal Talabani, the Kurdish leader who is serving as president of the council this month, told the Times a majority of the council members "want to keep the Governing Council as it is now."
But some opposing council members suggest the proposal is being promoted by members who are afraid they may not fare well in the coming elections.
"This is from people who have a fear of losing a grip on things," said council member Ghazi Ajil al-Yawar, a tribal sheik. "If we do this, we will be another Yasser Arafat, the Palestinian leader whose enemies accuse him of routinely reneging on agreements."
