Posted on 09/21/2008 10:56:34 AM PDT by Alouette
PM arrives at president's official Jerusalem residence to submit his resignation after 33 months in office. Peres promises to work quickly toward establishment of new coalition, thanks Olmert for his 'contribution to country'
Roni Sofer Latest Update: 09.21.08, 20:19 / Israel News
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert arrived at President Shimon Peres' official residence in Jerusalem Sunday evening in order to submit his resignation just 33 months after taking office.
Peres told reporters shortly after receiving the letter that he "appreciates the special way in which Olmert decided to transfer power. It was not an easy decision to make and I know this is a difficult evening for him.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the prime minister for his contribution to the people and the country and for many years of public service," the president said.
Peres added that he would make every effort to task one of the MKs with forming a new coalition prior to his departure for New York Monday night to attend the 63rd session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Olmert's government has accordingly become a transit government until newly elected Kadima Chairwoman Tzipi Livni, who is expected to be tasked with assembling the next government, forms a new coalition or decides to call elections.
President Peres will next consult with representatives of the different factions, who will recommend whom he should task with forming a new government – most likely Foreign Minister Livni.
Peres is not wasting any time, and is expected to meet with Kadima and Likud faction representatives later this evening.
The Knesset member tasked with the mission will be given 28 days, with a possible extension of 14 days. If this person fails, the president is authorized to order a different MK to form a coalition within an additional 28 days.
Should the second MK fail to do so, the general elections will be moved up and will be held within 90 days.
On Sunday morning, Olmert informed the cabinet that he would be stepping down.
He began the weekly cabinet meeting by wishing Livni the best of luck, and pledging her his support.
"I hope she can form a coalition soon and I will give her any support she needs in the process. I know how hard it is to do, as does (Defense Minister Ehud) Barak," he added.
He should have departed ages ago.
Bye, bye, Olmerde, and about high time! But I shudder to think what will happen if Tzipi takes the helm! Israel needs new leadership, not Olmerde II in a skirt!
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