Politicians said the sensitivity of the posts and the need for consensus on the three jobs -- heading the ministries of interior, defence and national security -- was the reason for the delay.

"He will head a government of 38 ministers and ministers of state, but the three ministries in charge of security will not be announced tomorrow," said Khalid al-Assadi, an MP in Maliki's coalition who is seen as close to the premier.

"The ministers will be chosen by Maliki from among a field of candidates and he will present his choices to all the parties to have their agreement because these ministers cannot be party political," Assadi said.

Maliki has in the past been accused by critics of trying to consolidate his grip on power by grouping increasing responsibilities, in particular intelligence and security, under the office of the prime minister.

An aide to the premier confirmed the delay, saying: "These three ministries need more time and study because of the sensitivity of the posts."

"Everyone must agree on the candidates and the nominees must be acceptable, and that needs more time," the aide said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Maliki was named prime minister-designate on November 25, after a power-sharing deal was agreed between Iraq's divided factions, and given 30 days to form a cabinet.

The accord put an end to months of political impasse after inconclusive parliamentary elections on March 7.

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