Nelson Mandela Retires from Active Public Life

Nelson Mandela is one of the most illustrious and well-known world leaders. At 85, the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize winner has had many battles as an human rights layer, leader of the African National Congress, President of South Africa, global ambassador of South Africa and the HIV/AIDS cause. Now, Mr. Mandela wants to devote his time to his family and friends.

Enjoy it Mr. Mandela. Thank you for what you have done for the world!

Read more: Mandela "to lead quieter life", Profile: Nelson Mandela, Mandela's farewell to parliament

Interim Government for Iraq

Iraq's interim government was sworn in, reported BBC (Iraq's interim cabinet sworn in). The interim government is to lead the country from June 30, 2004, when the power will be officially transferred to the Iraqi people, to the beginning of 2005 when the elected representatives of the National Assembly will elect new transitional government.

Most of the representatives in the government, including the interim president, were part of the Iraq's Governing Council. The US and the UN Special Adviser tried to influence in the selection of the interim government, however the Council's decisions prevailed (Head of Iraqi Governing Council to serve as interim president - UN envoy, Brahimi 'respects' Iraqi Council's decision on Prime Minister-designate). Although the Iraq's Governing Council is generally pro-American, not all US favourites were selected. For example, Mr. Pachachi, who had been chosen as president but had declined the job because of little backing among his fellow council members. Instead Mr. Yawer was elected although he has recently criticized US has handled the situation in Iraq.

Although with a new government Iraq will not be sovereign. The interim government has little power and minimal budget to exert its power (Q&A: The handover in Iraq). The funding available for Iraq's reconstruction will be managed by a very strong American Embassy and the security of the country will be managed by a National Security Council consisting of US generals but chaired by an Iraqi (the word puppet comes to mind).

In the mean time, the UN is discussing a new Security Council resolution on Iraq: Security Council discusses draft resolution on Iraq, UK hopes for Iraq vote this week.