Failing to Dilute Premier Post, Arafat Accepts Its Creation

(New York Times) - Yasser Arafat signed legislation Tuesday to create a post of prime minister, after the Palestinian parliament and members of his Fatah movement forced him to withdraw a demand that he retain authority to approve appointments by the prime minister. Arafat has nominated his longtime ally Mahmoud Abbas for the post, although Mr. Abbas has not said whether he will take the job.