Strauss-Kahn quits IMF job to deny sex attack charges

Mr Strauss-Kahn, 62, who is facing charges of allegedly sexually assaulting a New York hotel maid, handed in a letter of resignation to the IMF board, the fund said.

In the document, the former managing director denied the allegations made against him "with the greatest possible firmness" and vowed to devote all his time and energy to proving his innocence.

The statement said: "It is with infinite sadness that I feel compelled today to present to the executive board my resignation from my post of managing director of the IMF.

"I think at this time first of my wife - whom I love more than anything - of my children, of my family, of my friends.

"I think also of my colleagues at the fund; together we have accomplished such great things over the last three years and more.

"To all, I want to say that I deny with the greatest possible firmness all of the allegations made against me.

"I want to protect this institution which I have served with honour and devotion, and especially I want to devote all my strength, time and energy to proving my innocence."

Mr Strauss-Kahn, one of France's most high-profile politicians, is due to attend a second bail hearing in New York today after being denied bail on Monday.

He has been on suicide watch at New York's Rikers Island prison since his arrest on Saturday.

The married Frenchman, who was viewed as a front- runner in next year's presidential elections, faces charges of committing a criminal sexual act, attempted rape, sexual abuse, unlawful imprisonment and forcible touching.

All relate to allegations made by a 32-year-old maid who worked at the Sofitel hotel in New York, where Mr Strauss-Kahn was staying.

The IMF, which will now begin the process of selecting a new managing director, said that John Lipsky would remain as acting head and that it would release information "in the near future" about the appointment of Mr Strauss-Kahn's successor.