IRAQ’S cabinet approved a reform plan on yesterday that includes abolishing the posts of the three vice-presidents and the deputy PM.

Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi’s plan, which still requires parliamentary approval, would effectively sack his predecessor, Nouri al-Maliki, who begrudgingly stepped aside a year ago and was appointed to the largely symbolic role of vice-president.

Mr Maliki is alleged to have undermined his successor in a bid to eventually return to power, charges he denies.

Mr Abadi’s seven-point plan would also require that a number of government posts be filled with independents, a move aimed at combatting corruption in the political system.

Spending on personal bodyguards for officials would also be reduced and responsibility for them transferred to the Interior and Defence Ministries.