Prime Minister Al-Abadi downsizes Council of Ministers

Statement from the Prime Minister's Office:

August 16, 2015

Based on the public interest, according to Article 78 of the Constitution and upon delegation of the Council of Representatives, we have decided, on behalf of the people, to:

Reduce the number of cabinet members to become 22 in addition to the Prime Minister instead of 33 members, according to the following:

1. Cancel the posts of Deputy Prime Minister
2. Cancel ministerial positions for the following ministries:
(A) Ministry of Human Rights
(B) Ministry of State for Women's Affairs
(C) Ministry of State for Provincial and Parliamentary Affairs
(D) Ministry of State
3. Restructure the following ministries by:
(A) Merging of the Ministry of Science and Technology with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research
(B) Merging of the Ministry of Environment with the Ministry of Health
(C) Merging of the Ministry of Municipalities and the Ministry of Construction and Housing
(D) Merging of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities with the Ministry of Culture
4. The General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers takes the necessary measures to implement the provisions of the above order
5. This order becomes valid as from the date of issuance

PM Media Office
August 16, 2015