Israeli President Moshe Katsav Wednesday afternoon asked the Knesset (parliament) to declare the temporary suspension of his presidency, following the rape and sexual harassment charges against him, local media reported.

Katsav announced his intent in a letter to Knesset Speaker Dalia Itzik, Israeli Channel 10 reported. However, his request for a suspension is subject to the approval by Knesset House Committee.

The president is expected to make a formal announcement at 7:00 PM (17:00 GMT) at a press conference which will be held in his official residence in Jerusalem.

According to Israeli law, the president can announce an inability to fulfill his duty and suspend himself for three months. During the time, he still has political immunity and cannot be indicted.

The three-month period of incapacity is due to come to a close once a final decision is made on the indictment, after Katsav presents his case.

Earlier Wednesday, Justice Minister Tzipi Livni issued a statement calling for Katsav's resignation.

(Xinhua News Agency January 25, 2007)