Leo Varadkar resigns as Irish prime minister, party chief

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - Leo Varadkar, the leader of Ireland's Fine Gael party, on Wednesday announced that he is resigning from his post as prime minister ahead of the country's next general election, according to the Irish media.

"My reasons for stepping down are both personal and political," he said, according to the Irish Times.

Varadkar said that after seven years in office, "I don't feel like the best person for that job."

There is a "right time" to step down, he noted, adding that after "some soul searching" a new leader would be better placed to get the government reelected.

The political journey of Varadkar, who said his time in government has been "the most fulfilling time of my life," has been marked by notable milestones.

He first assumed the role of premier, or taoiseach, in 2017, with his term extended until 2020 when he transitioned to the role of deputy prime minister, or Tanaiste, until December 2022.

Under a "rotating Taoiseach" arrangement, Varadkar resumed his role as the Irish premier.