Iraqi PM defends performance in wake of protests

[March 10, 2011]  BAGHDAD (AP) -- Iraq's prime minister is defending his performance in the wake of protests across the country demanding more jobs, better government services and less corruption.

In a rare appearance in front of parliament, Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki on Thursday told lawmakers that they were just as much to blame for the government's failures. Specifically, he says they have failed to pass badly needed laws that would encourage development and economic growth. Like other countries in the Middle East, Iraq has been buffeted by protests. Demonstrations here have focused on improving government services instead of toppling the government entirely. Al-Maliki has vowed to give his newly elected government 100 days to improve the situation or risk losing their jobs. [Associated Press] Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.