Editorial: Wisdom

Finally, (outgoing prime minister) Ibrahim al-Ja'fari's wisdom prevailed over the lust for power. He bravely took responsibility in sailing the Iraqi ship during high tides. And he was brave when he accepted his nomination for his second term, even though he knew that leading (Iraq) would not be an easy task and was a huge responsibility. Ja'fari was wise when he apologized for not being able to hold responsibility (and stepped down as nominee for the premiership) in this complicated era. He did not concede defeat but showed wisdom by making the right decision at the right time. He recognized that it was not wise to rule Iraq without the support of all of the (political) slates and might endanger the country's future. Ja'fari ruled for one year, and people may be split in their assessment of his era and him personally. The Sudanese were proud of (General) Suwar al-Dahab who willingly ceded his power. Iraqis should remember Ja'fari for this virtue as well.