RAMALLAH, West Bank, Feb. 23 (UPI) -- Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmed Qureia has gained the support of the main Fatah faction for his proposed cabinet, the BBC reported Wednesday.
Fatah MPs had rejected Qureia's initial proposal because it included too many veterans of Yasser Arafat's administration, which was regarded by many as corrupt, the BBC said. His first line-up included only four newcomers.
The proposed cabinet consists mostly of technocrats and other experts brought in to work towards social reform and combat corruption.
Information Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Nabil Shaath will keep his position as will Finance Minister Salam Fayad.
Former general Nasser Yousef has been listed as the next interior minister, responsible for the Palestinian security services. Former envoy to the United Nations Nasser al-Kidwa is expected to become foreign minister.
Veteran negotiator Saeb Erekat said earlier Wednesday he will not be a part of the cabinet.
The legislative council plans to put the proposed cabinet to a Thursday vote.
