New Delhi: Ireland's Indian-origin Prime Minister Leo Varadkar on Wednesday announced his sudden resignation from his post and party leadership, citing "personal and political" reasons, which sent shockwaves across the country.
In an emotional statement delivered from the steps of the government buildings in Dublin, the 45-year-old Taoiseach announced his resignation, expressing that part of leadership is knowing when it's time to pass on the baton to someone else, reported news agency PTI.
"I am resigning as president and leader effective from today and will resign as taoiseach as soon as my successor is able to take up that office", Varadkar said.
Varadkar, who led the Fine Gael party since 2017, was born in Ireland to a Mumbai-born father and an Irish mother. At the age of 38, when he became Ireland’s youngest and first openly gay Prime Minister, he stated that he believed a new leader would be better suited to gain seats for his party in the upcoming general election, as per the PTI report.
"My reasons for stepping down now are personal and political, but mainly political... After seven years in office, I don't feel I'm the best person for that job anymore," said Varadkar.
"There are loyal colleagues and good friends contesting local European elections, and I want to give them the best chance possible. On a personal level, I've enjoyed being Taoiseach... However, politicians are human beings and we have our limitations. We give it everything until we can't anymore. And then we have to move on," he said.
"That’s it. I have nothing else lined up or in mind. No definite personal or political plans, but I am looking forward to having the time to think about them," he added.
Varadkar added that he was proud that the country is "more equal and more modern place when it comes to the rights of children, the LGBT community, equality for women and their bodily autonomy," the PTI report added.
His resignation does not immediately trigger a general election, as the next one is scheduled for March 2025. Instead, a new Taoiseach is expected to be in place after a party leadership contest, with Varadkar intending to continue as a member of parliament for his Dublin West constituency.
Varadkar's unexpected decision surprised Tanaiste Micheal Martin, who wished him the best for the future, reported PTI.
Attention now shifts to his replacement, with several ministers expected to contest the leadership position within the party. Varadkar will remain the leader until his successor assumes the role.