Yesterday’s elections in Iraq should be applauded. So too should be the role Iraqi President Jalal Talabani has played over the last four-plus years. Talabani has been a voice of moderation and has helped bring back different sectarian and ethnic groups from the brink on several occasions. He works well with Americans, Iranians, Turks, and Syrians, a useful skill for any Iraqi statesman.
But it’s time for Talabani to go. Preliminary reports suggest Talabani’s Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) came in second in Sulaymani, Talabani’s stronghold, although the PUK appears to have eked out a victory in hotly contested Kirkuk. The PUK has lost ground as Talabani and his family have been unwilling to crack down on massive corruption which has undercut confidence in him. Talabani’s eldest son remains in exile in London, having allegedly been caught with his hand in the piggy bank, and his wife has earned the nickname “Mrs. 10 Percent,” although this may be too generous an assessment of what is left for others. Talabani’s nephew controlled the anti-terrorist squad which opened fire on political supporters of the opposition Change List soon after the campaign began.
Many Iraqis have questioned why Talabani should remain as president when he has failed to manage his party. Indeed, Talabani remaining in power would be akin to a British prime minister wishing to continue service after losing his seat. For Iraq to succeed, however, it’s important that Talabani retire gracefully for another reason: He is old and ill. While the next government will last four years, it is unlikely Talabani can. If President Obama wishes Iraq to succeed, it is crucial that he gear U.S. policy toward strengthening the system of governance in Iraq, rather than base U.S. relations on personalities. Indeed, if Talabani steps down, he can pave the way for a new generation of leader—perhaps one less tainted by corruption—to take the helm. Talabani can play a crucial role as an elder statesman and, indeed, cap off a career by ensuring a smooth transition while he still can.