File photo of Greek PM Alexis Tsipras
Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has resigned today to pave the way for early elections on September 20, government officials said, hoping to quell a rebellion in his leftist Syriza party and seal support for a bailout programme.
Tsipras's decision to return to the ballot box after seven bruising months in power deepens political uncertainty on the very day Greece began receiving funds under its third bailout programme with foreign creditors.
But a snap election should allow Tsipras to capitalise on his popularity with Greek voters before the toughest parts of the programme begin to bite, and may allow him to return to power in a stronger position without anti-bailout rebels in his radical left Syriza party to slow him down.