Irish PM Leo Varadkar Resigns After Referendum Losses

Ireland's Prime Minister Leo Varadkar surprised the nation by announcing his resignation.

Varadkar's resignation follows his government's loss in two referenda aimed at amending what it deemed "sexist" language in the constitution. I Photo: Leo Varadkar T.D. Facebook

Speaking to journalists outside government buildings in Dublin on Wednesday, Varadkar cited "personal and political, but mainly political" reasons for his decision, as reported by Niamh Kennedy and Sophie Tanno for CNN.

After seven years in office, Varadkar stated, "I don't feel I'm the best person for that job anymore," expressing confidence that a new Taoiseach (prime minister) would be "better placed" to secure re-election.

Varadkar, who first assumed power in 2017 after being elected leader of the Fine Gael party, is Ireland's youngest prime minister and its first gay leader. He will remain in his position until a new Taoiseach is elected.

Varadkar's resignation follows his government's loss in two referenda aimed at amending what it deemed "sexist" language in the constitution.

He is likely to be remembered for his efforts to liberalize Ireland, particularly regarding the country's strict anti-abortion laws. Varadkar, the son of an Indian-born father and an Irish mother, initially pursued a career in medicine before entering the Irish parliament at the age of 27.

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