In a surprising move, Leo Varadkar, Ireland's first openly gay taoiseach, announced his decision to step down from the position of Prime Minister on Wednesday. Varadkar, who became the country's youngest taoiseach in 2017, also revealed that he would be relinquishing his leadership of the center-right Fine Gael party.

Speaking to reporters outside government buildings in Dublin, Varadkar expressed his pride in making Ireland a more equal and modern place during his tenure. However, he cited "personal and political" reasons for his resignation, stating that there was no specific cause behind his decision. Emotionally, he confessed to having no definite plans for the future.

The announcement, described as a "bolt from the blue" by a senior Irish official, has left the Irish public in a state of uncertainty. Varadkar, a physician by profession, apparently did not envision a long-term career in politics. His departure, occurring just days after his meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House, will not automatically trigger an election.

Varadkar has requested that a new leader for the Fine Gael party be chosen on April 6, allowing for a new Prime Minister to take office after the parliamentary Easter break. At 45 years old, Varadkar, who has both Irish and Indian heritage, made history as Ireland's youngest leader and its first gay and biracial Prime Minister. He served two terms as taoiseach, from 2017 to 2020 and then again since December 2022.

During his time in office, Varadkar successfully oversaw referendums that resulted in the legalization of same-sex marriage and abortion in the Irish constitution. However, he recently faced setbacks when proposed changes to redefine marriage and remove "sexist" language were rejected by the public.

In his resignation announcement, Varadkar acknowledged that his decision would come as a surprise and disappointment to many. He emphasized the human limitations of politicians and expressed hope that others would understand his choice. As Ireland prepares for a new chapter in its government, the attention now turns to the selection of a new Fine Gael leader and the future Prime Minister of Ireland.