Crossword Genius

Democratic leader recalled some secret sin: "I'm emir", perhaps? (5,8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

prime minister

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'democratic leader' is the definition.
'prime minister' can be an answer for 'leader' (prime minister is a kind of leader). I am not sure about the 'democratic' bit.

'recalled some secret sin i'm emir perhaps?' is the wordplay.
'recalled' says the letters should be written in reverse (to recall can mean to bring something back).
'some' indicates a hidden word (some parts of the word are used).
'retsinimemirp' is hidden in the letters of 'secret sin im emir perhaps'.
'retsinimemirp' backwards is 'PRIME MINISTER'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for prime minister that I've seen before include "PM" , "Law once in UK" , "Head of state" , "Premier to brief clergyman" , "Government leader" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app