Irish PM Leo Varadkar Announces Shock Resignation

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.