Olmert to Resign as Israel’s Prime Minister
Time today discusses who may become Israel’s next prime minister. Ehud Olmert has announced his resignation from office, to take effect immediately after his party chooses a successor. The primary is only one week away, and there is concern that the Israel-Palestine peace discussions will now be put on hold and may not meet the end date of December this year.
Olmert’s own Kadima Party will select the next prime minister of Israel from among its ranks. Even though he wishes to leave his post, Olmert may have to stay on longer than he anticipates since his successor may be unable to form a ruling coalition and an early general election would follow. Candidates to replace Olmert include the lead negotiator in peace discussions, Tzipi Livni, who if chosen, will be the first female prime minister of Israel since Golda Meir.
Roopa Radhakrishnan
