New Egyptian PM tasked with government formation following surprise resignations

CAIRO, Feb. 25 (UPI) -- Egyptian President Adly Mansour tapped outgoing Housing Minister Ibrahim Mahlab as the new prime minister following Hazem el-Beblawi's surprise resignation Monday, and tasked Mahlab with forming a new government.

Beblawi submitted his unexpected resignation -- and that of his cabinet -- to the Egyptian president Monday, announcing the army-backed government's withdrawal in a live televised 15 minute speech that touched on the "very difficult responsibility" his cabinet shouldered and recognition that it was "the time for us to put our country's interests above all others." Beblawi had been criticized publicly for not dealing effectively with Egypt's economic troubles.

Mansour moved quickly to replace Beblawi, appointing Mahlab a day later.

At a press conference Tuesday, the new prime minister promised to "crush terrorism in all corners of the country."

"Restoration of security and national unity of the Egyptian people are indispensable to move forward towards improving the living conditions of Egyptian families."

Speaking to local media, Mahlab said that his government would work to stop strikes that have been cropping up throughout the country and work to improve employment and production, and to bring greater stability to Egypt.

[BBC]