Yemeni leader to quit in 2013

YEMENI President Ali Abdullah Saleh, eyeing protests that threaten to topple Egypt’s long-time ruler, indicated yesterday he would leave office when his current term ends in 2013, after three decades in power.

Saleh, a key US ally against al-Qaida, also vowed not to pass on the reins of government to his son and appealed to opposition to call off protests as a large rally loomed.

“I present these concessions in the interests of the country. The interests of the country come before our personal interests,” Saleh told his parliament, Shoura Council and members of the military.