Germany's Lower Saxony state premier to stand down in May, several media report

Stephan Weil withdraws as Prime Minister of Lower Saxony. His successor becomes the former Minister of Economic Affairs Olaf Lies. The 57-year-old Social Democrat maintains a political style that leaves little room for the opponents.

For years Stephan Weil had rejected the rumors about a withdrawal as Prime Minister. Now he passes on the office. His successor was once his competitor.

After the withdrawal of SPD country father Stephan Weil, a race for top positions has started in the SPD Niedersachsen.

Niedersachsen's long-time Prime Minister Stephan Weil wants to withdraw from office prematurely. He also wants to give up the SPD presidency.

Germany's Lower Saxony state premier to resign, say sources

BERLIN (Reuters) -Veteran German Social Democrat (SPD) Stephan Weil plans to stand down as premier of the state of Lower Saxony after 12 years in office, two sources familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday. Read full story

The Prime Minister of Lower Saxony, Stephan Weil, wants to hand over his office to State Minister for Economic Affairs Lies. CDU calls for new elections.