Belgium's government said today that its Finance Minister Steven Vanackere is stepping down.
Vanackere was facing allegations that he badly handled a bank bailout. He has rejected the allegations.
Belgian media reported that Vanackere said he was resigning not because of wrongdoing but because the pressure of the constant allegations limited his ability to carry out his ministerial duties.
Vanackere was finance minister since 2011, overseeing Belgium's worsening economic situation and high debt load.
Prime Minister Elio di Rupo said in a statement that he regrets his deputy's decision to step down.
