Russian president Vladimir Putin, after the surprise firing of his cabinet three weeks ago, eliminated several cabinet-level positions and named his new advisors. The number of ministers in the cabinet was reduced from 30 to 17, and Mikhail Fradkov was appointed new prime minister. Putin's critics say the new appointees are only friends and associates of Putin, and the move will lead to "administrative chaos" and result in a decrease in government efficiency.
Iraqi governing council ratifies constitution
The interim governing body in Iraq approved a temporary constitution on Monday, March 8. The constitution will take effect on June 30, when the United States transfers sovereignty back to the Iraqis. The constitution was ratified over the objections of several Shiite leaders, most notably Grand Ayatollah Ali Hussein al-Sistani, who have expressed a desire to introduce changes prior to the constitution taking effect. US officials believe the constitution is a large step forward, and that it will "take Iraq closer to a democratic and sovereign government," with President Bush calling the signing a "historic milestone."
Iran accuses United States of 'bullying' UN nuclear agency
Iran's foreign minister, Kamal Kharrazi, warned that Iran might cease cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency if European countries did not begin to resist the US. The Iranian government has accused the US of "bullying" the agency into drafting a resolution censuring Iran for its nuclear program.
Interim Haitian president sworn in, new prime minister named
The fractured Haitian government began to take a new shape on Monday, March 8, as Boniface Alexandre was sworn in as interim president of the country. On Tuesday, March 9, the Council of Sages appointed Gerard Latorue to the position of prime minister. Exiled leader Jean-Bertrand Aristide called for peace in the country, but also claimed he remains the president and that he was "politically abducted" from Haiti.
Thai government reshuffles cabinet
Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra replaced the interior, defense, and foreign ministers on Wednesday, March 10. The move is a result of public criticism of the government's handling of a bird flu outbreak, ethnic violence in the southern region, and proposed privatization of government-owned companies.
