Scandal-plagued Jacques Chirac not seeking re-election

March 11, 2007

Paris - In a long-awaited announcement, French President Jacques Chirac formally announced Sunday he will not seek re-election after 12 years in the nation's highest office.

In a long-awaited announcement, French President Jacques Chirac formally announced Sunday he will not seek re-election after 12 years in the nation's highest office.

"The moment has come for me to serve you in a different way," he told his countrymen in a televised prime-time speech. Chirac vowed to "continue to fight" for justice, progress, and peace with "enthusiasm" and "passion."

The French leader shocked many observers in July when he said he had not yet decided whether to seek a third term. Though he told CNN in September that no one should "pre-judge" his decision, his popularity has been battered by persistent unemployment and social unrest.