Iraq's Cabinet Debates Electricity Minister's Resignation Amid Mass Street Riots

Two people were shot dead at this protest in Basra on June 19

Iraq's cabinet is meeting today to discuss the resignation of Electricity Minister Karim Waheed amid continuing street protests against power shortages in central and southern Iraq.

Thousands of people protested against the lack of electricity in Karbala today, after recent protests in the southern cities of Basra and Nasiriyah over the past few days sparked violent clashes between police and protesters.

On June 19, two protesters were killed when security forces opened fire on a demonstration in Basra.

Waheed went on national television on June 21 to announce his resignation, but government officials say that a decision as to whether or not it will be accepted will come at today's meeting.

compiled from agency reports