Egypt's PM resigns days after el-Sissi began 2nd term

Cairo:  Egypt's prime minister submitted his government's resignation today, three days after President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi was sworn in for a second, four-year term in office.

The move by Prime Minister Sherif Ismail was in keeping with political tradition that the government should resign at the start of a new presidential term. However, el-Sissi has the prerogative to use the opportunity to reshuffle the Cabinet.

El-Sissi and Ismail are known to enjoy a close working relationship, with the general-turned-president often publicly praising his prime minister.

Ismail sought medical treatment in Germany late last year. He returned home a month later showing considerable weight loss, some of which he has since regained. The nature of his ailment was never officially disclosed.

Ismail's resignation was announced by presidential spokesman Bassam Radi, who said el-Sissi has asked the government to stay in office in a caretaker capacity until a new one is formed.

Ismail has been prime minister since September 2015.