General in Iraq Abuse Probe Seeks Removal (wtf?)

[UpInArms]

http://www.guardian.co.uk/worldlatest/story/0,1280,-4190142,00.html

WASHINGTON (AP) - The general in charge of U.S. forces in Iraq has asked to be removed from overseeing the investigation into alleged abuses at Abu Ghraib prison, a move that would allow him to interviewed in connection with the case.

If approved, Lt. Gen. Ricardo Sanchez's request would result in Maj. Gen. George Fay being replaced as the chief of the investigation, said U.S. defense officials, discussing the investigation Thursday only on the condition of anonymity.

Sanchez has asked that an officer senior to him - either a more senior lieutenant general, or a four-star general - take over the investigation.

It is considered inappropriate for a junior officer - Fay - to interview a senior officer - Sanchez, the officials said. An officer ranked above Sanchez, however, could interview him.

<snip>

Fay had previously sought and received permission to extend the duration of his investigation, Army officials have said. Fay's report was expected in July; it is possible his replacement would delay it further.

...more...

So Sanchez is trying to get Fay removed? Is this just more smoke and mirrors and a new delaying tactic and getting someone in who is not familiar with the players?

:grr:

[sundancekid]

1. IMHO this should lead to the way being cleared to investigate UP, UP, UP

the nasty chain ... see also my post (and those of others) on this earlier thread:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=102x613638

[whosinpower]

2. What this does allow

Is that Rumsfeld himself will oversee the investigation. Now THERE is a scary thought!

[ElectroPrincess]

3. It won't work ...

I partly see this as a ploy to drag out and delay the findings of this investigation until after the Presidential election. Such behavior seems *desparate* because it's clear that the congress wants answers yesterday?!? I hope and pray that the Democrats in Congress keep their backbone AND some of the more thoughtful Republicans grow back their spine.

[fob]

4. It is considered inappropriate for a junior officer - Fay -

to interview a senior officer...

Well, good thing this is just a low level investigation into some frat prank shenanigans and doesn't rise to the point of FUCK THE PROTOCALL, ASK THE AHOLE SOME EFFING QUESTIONS!!

Don't get your bvd's in a bunch there General Sanchez, soldier up and let the "junior" officer do his job!