Speaker of National Council tenders resignation

Speaker of the Iraqi National Council Saadoun Hammadi has submitted his resignation to Iraqi President Saddam Hussien, sources close to Iraqi officials said on September 15.

Hammadi, in his letter of resignation said that he was suffering health problems that prohibit him from continuing his work.

The sources added that Hammadi was planning to reside permanently in Jordan.

Hammadi, who occupied the posts of foreign minister and prime minister in the past, has been strongly criticized lately by some supporters of Saddam.

The criticism centered on his negligence in work and not reflecting clearly the situation in Iraq during Arab Parliamentary conferences.