Top Iraqi cleric Sistani dispels reports of ill health

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2008

NAJAF, Iraq (AFP) — Iraq's most revered Shiite cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani dispelled reports of being seriously ill at a rare meeting with journalists at his home on Sunday.

An AFP correspondent who was among those who gathered at Sistani's house in the central holy city of Najaf said the cleric appeared to be in good health and did not seek any aid during the encounter, which lasted almost 15 minutes.

"There are reports about my health which have worried the believers. These are incorrect," the 78-year-old reclusive religious leader told reporters.

"I urge the journalists to report the reality," he said in a slow but steady voice.

Wearing a traditional religious robe cloaked with a black abaya, as well as a black turban, Sistani praised...