Military-Backed Egyptian Cabinet Resigns

Egyptian interim Prime Minister Hazem el-Beblawi

Egypt's military-backed prime minister, Hazem el-Beblawi has announced that his cabinet has submitted its resignation.

Speaking in a live television broadcast, Beblawi didn't explain the reason behind the decision, but correspondents say the move could be designed to pave the way for army chief Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to leave his post as defense minister to run for president in April's election.

Sisi is widely tipped to win the vote, if he stands.

The government has also been criticized for failing to improve the economy.

State media reported that interim President Adly Mansour has asked Beblawi to run the government's affairs until a new prime minister is elected.

Beblawi's government was sworn in on July 16, shortly after Islamist President Muhammad Morsi was ousted by a military-backed coup.


Based on reporting by AFP, AP, and Reuters