Iraqi Shiite cleric Qassem Taei announced that he is considering running for head of the Iraqi government to succeed the outgoing Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi. A statement released by Taei’s office said that the cleric “received many requests by the demonstrators to run for office, especially by demonstrators in the Dhi Qar governorate.” Dhi Qar protesters demonstrated in support of the cleric with some voicing their confidence in his ability to pull the country out of its current crisis. “Taie has a comprehensive program that includes eliminating corruption and bringing all the corrupt from 2003 to date to trial, no matter how influential they are,” the statement said, adding that although Taei has not yet decided his position on this nomination, he is studying the matter seriously. Abdul Mahdi resigned in December following massive anti-government protests. He is serving in a caretaker capacity until a new government is formed. Deep differences remain between political forces and demonstrators over appointing the next prime minister. Protesters insist on the departure and accountability of all political elites accused of corruption and waste of state funds and who have governed since the overthrow of Saddam Husseins regime in 2003.