Al-Rahman, a Kurd, will stand in for Rizgar Muhammad Amin, who submitted his resignation earlier this month after strong public criticism that he was being too lenient with Hussein by allowing him to speak out in court.
A court spokesman said al-Rahman will remain as presiding judge until an official decision is taken on whether to accept Amin's resignation.
Amin has repeatedly said his decision to resign is final.
(Reuters, AFP, AP)
Saddam Hussein In Pictures
A slideshow of photographs from Saddam Hussein's years ruling Iraq through his downfall.