Peru PM to step down ‘next week’

Yehude Simon sets date for resignation, first announced after clashes in the Amazon.

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Tensions have been high in the Peruvian Amazon over government policy in the region [AFP]

Opposition parties had said that Simon was ultimately responsible for the clashes, but a vote in congress earlier this week failed to generate enough votes for his removal.

Alan Garcia, the president, has also faced calls for him to stand down following the violence. He has not said who he will nominate as the new prime minister, but presidents often have a cabinet reshuffle in late July.

Source: News Agencies