Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn has resigned unexpectedly, saying he hoped to end years of unrest and political upheaval. Mr Hailemariam, who has led the country since 2012, also stepped down as chairman of the ruling coalition. "I see my resignation as vital in the bid to carry out reforms that would lead to sustainable peace and democracy." Mr Hailemariam said he will stay on as a caretaker prime minister until parliament and the EPRDF accept his resignation and choose a replacement. Mr Hailemariam, a trained engineer, took office following the death of Meles Zenawi who had ruled since 1991.

Source: Ethiopian News February 15, 2018 17:03 UTC