23 Jan 2015

Yemen's president resigns in protest

8:40 pm on 23 January 2015

The president of Yemen has resigned - along with his prime minister - in protest at the takeover of the capital Sana'a by Shia Houthi rebels, creating a dangerous political vacuum.

An armoured tank is seen at Sebin Square in Sana'a on 22 January.

An armoured tank is seen at Sebin Square in Sana'a on 22 January. Photo: AFP

President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi said he could not continue after the Houthis failed to honour a peace deal, the BBC reported.

Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi (file photo - June 2013)

Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi (file photo) Photo: AFP

Parliament has reportedly refused to accept the resignations.

Security sources have told the BBC that Yemen's intelligence chief, Ali Hassan al-Ahmedi, has also stepped down.

There are reports of explosions in the southern port city of Aden, where President Hadi has a strong following.

Houthi rebel figures publicly welcomed the resignation of the president with one proposing the creation of a ruling council.

Houthi leaders had previously committed themselves to withdrawing from key positions around the presidential palace and the home of President Hadi.

The US, which is helping fight al-Qaeda militants in Yemen, said it was still assessing the implications of President Hadi's move.

-BBC

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