Israeli President Moshe Katsav Wednesday afternoon asked the
Knesset (parliament) to declare the temporary suspension of his
presidency, following the rape and sexual harassment charges
against him, local media reported.
Katsav announced his intent in a letter to Knesset Speaker Dalia
Itzik, Israeli Channel 10 reported. However, his request for a
suspension is subject to the approval by Knesset House
Committee.
The president is expected to make a formal announcement at 7:00
PM (17:00 GMT) at a press conference which will be held in his
official residence in Jerusalem.
According to Israeli law, the president can announce an
inability to fulfill his duty and suspend himself for three months.
During the time, he still has political immunity and cannot be
indicted.
The three-month period of incapacity is due to come to a close
once a final decision is made on the indictment, after Katsav
presents his case.
Earlier Wednesday, Justice Minister Tzipi Livni issued a
statement calling for Katsav's resignation.
(Xinhua News Agency January 25, 2007)
