Premier Formally Quits in Face of Criticism

Prime Minister Jean-Marie Cherestal, who faced a rising tide of criticism even from members of the ruling party over his failure to deal with Haiti’s political and economic woes, formally resigned.

It was not clear when President Jean-Bertrand Aristide would pick a successor.

Cherestal, who was charged with the day-to-day running of government, was picked by Aristide about a year ago. But the economy has continued to deteriorate, and political leaders have failed to resolve a dispute over legislative elections in May 2000 that has held up much-needed international aid.