Israeli PM tells ministers of resignation from post
Sunday, 21 Sep 2008 19:36
The Israeli prime minister will formally leave his position once a new government is formed
Israel/Palestine In Focus
Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert has told cabinet ministers that he will step down from his position as head of government.
Yesterday, Mr Olmert's Kadima party elected foreign minister Tzipi Livni as its leader. Ms Livni will now have six weeks to form a coalition as her party does not hold a majority in the Knesset.
Speaking to members of his cabinet, he said: "I have decided to end my functions as prime minister of the government of Israel.
"I hope that Tzipi Livni will succeed in forming a national government with the composition she wants. For my part I will help her with all my strength."
Mr Olmert is yet to submit his resignation to Israel's president Shimon Peres and will continue as prime minister until a new government is formed.
The Israeli prime minister has been under increasing pressure to step down after two corruption investigations recommended that he face charges.
He has been accused of double billing government departments for official expenses and is suspected of wrongdoing over a donation received from an American businessman.