Egypt's Vice President Mahmoud Mekky has announced his resignation, after playing a key role in national unity talks called for by President Mohamed Morsi.

In a statement Saturday, Mekky said he is stepping down because political work does not suit his professional background as a judge.

Mekky said he first submitted his resignation letter on November 7, but that he postponed his departure because Egypt was trying to mediate a truce during the Israel-Hamas war, and because of a decision by Mr. Morsi to increase his powers.

In other news, state television reported the governor of Egypt's Central Bank, Faruq El-Okda, has resigned. The report said he may be replaced by his deputy, Hisham Ramez.

No reason was given for Okda's resignation, which comes amid economic turmoil in Egypt.