Iraqi PM Gives Ministers 100 Days To Improve Or Face 'Changes'

Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki

Iraq's prime minister says he is giving ministers 100 days to improve, after thousands of protesters took to the streets demanding better public services.

February 25 saw protesters marching on government buildings and clashing with security forces.

The violence left at least 14 dead.

Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki told his cabinet today that every ministry would be evaluated and "changes" made if necessary.

Protesters have called for fresh demonstrations on March 4 to mark one year since disputed parliamentary elections left the country without a working government for nine months.

Rights groups, meanwhile, are also pressing the prime minister to investigate the use of force against protesters.

compiled from agency reports