Iraq PM calls for `fundamental` change to cabinet

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi called Tuesday for the inclusion of technocrats and academics in the government in a "fundamental" reshuffle to his cabinet.

"I call for fundamental change to the cabinet to include professional and technocratic figures and academics," Abadi said in a speech broadcast on state television.

The premier called on parliament "and all the political blocs to cooperate with us in this serious phase."

Iraqi ministries are divided up between the country`s leading political blocs, which are often more concerned with distributing patronage than on effective governance.

Attempts to change the status quo will likely be met by resistance from politicians and their supporters who have a stake in the continuation of the current state of affairs.

Abadi has announced various other reforms over the past six months that have ultimately resulted in little lasting change.