Myanmar's president resigns 'to take rest from duties'

FILE PHOTO- Myanmar's new President Htin Kyaw arrives for a dinner reception following swearing in ceremony in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, March 30, 2016. REUTERS/Ye Aung Thu/File Photo

YANGON (Reuters) - Myanmar's civilian president, Htin Kyaw, has resigned with immediate effect "in order to take rest from the current duties and responsibilities", his office said in a statement posted on Facebook on Wednesday.

According to the country's constitution, the more senior of two vice presidents will stand in as president until a new leader is elected by parliament within seven working days.