Interim Iraqi Government

Contrary to the detractors of President Bush, it appears to me that
an Interim Government is taking shape in Iraq.

Received via e-mail from the Coalition Provisional Authority.

Distributed on behalf of Samir Shakir Mahmood Sumaiday, Iraqi Minister
of Interior

Ministry of Interior
Baghdad, Iraq

Statement by Samir Shakir Mahmood Sumaiday

Baghdad, Iraq...April 14, 2004 --

"Nothing is more important in the creation of a new Iraq than the
security of the country and its people. The Ministry of Interior and
its domestic security forces are crucial elements in the provision of
this security.

I am honored to have recently been appointed to serve as Iraq's interim
Minister of Interior.

I have already begun the performance of my duties as Minister of
Interior. As the law prohibits a person from serving simultaneously as
a minister and as a member of the Iraqi Governing Council, my acceptance
of the appointment as Minister of Interior means I am no longer a member
of the Governing Council.

I am proud, during my service on the Governing Council, to have worked
together with so many distinguished Iraqis dedicated to freedom and
democracy here.

As Minister of Interior, I will continue to promote these ideals while
at the same time working to increase the readiness and effectiveness of
Iraq's domestic security forces."