Peru's prime minister quits unexpectedly: Media

Peruvian Prime Minister Jose Chang has unexpectedly quit his post for personal reasons, four months before a new president takes power in the Andean country, local media reported on Saturday.

Chang's resignation, reported by radio station RPP and a local newspaper, will force President Alan Garcia to ratify or replace the rest of his cabinet. A news conference is scheduled for later on Saturday.

Chang took over as prime minister in September during a partial cabinet reshuffle. RPP said transport minister Enrique Cornejo or justice minister Rosario Fernandez could be sworn in as Garcia's next prime minister.

No change was expected at the top of the finance ministry, which has been led by Ismael Benavides since September.

Peruvians vote for a new president on April 10, and the election is almost certain to go to a run-off in June. Garcia must step down in late July.