Palin resigns

Former US vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin has formally resigned as Alaska governor, 18 months before the end of her term in office.



She announced her resignation abruptly on July 3, leading to speculation of a bid for the US presidency in 2012.



Mrs. Palin handed over to Alaska\'s Lieutenant Governor Sean Parnell at a picnic ceremony in Fairbanks, Alaska.



Dogged by ethics probes and legal bills, she gave few clues about her political future.



However she reiterated her commitment to keep championing Alaska.



Mrs Palin also took aim at the media, who she has accused of treating her and her family unfairly.



She appealed to members of the media not to write stories about the children or her replacement, Mr Parnell.



Forty-six year old Parnell, has promised to pursue many of Mrs Palin\'s initiatives, including a controversial natural gas pipeline.